Unit 8: Microlearning, IDD, & Portfolio

Unit 8: Microlearning, IDD, & Portfolio

Because I am passionate about experiencing different cultures, exploring new destinations, and immersing myself in different cultures like a local, my minicourse will be designed around providing novice and intermediate-level travelers guidance when booking trips. Learning objectives for the modules are:

Module 1: Learners will perform necessary travel research by navigating digital networks and tools (such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, etc.) to master travel-booking basics. (Connectivism & Andragogy)
Module 2: Learners will effectively plan a travel budget and construct a structured itinerary. (Constructivism)
Module 3: Utilizing the "Traveler's Profile Quiz," learners will analyze three recommended destinations and create a comprehensive itinerary (including accommodations, flights, and excursions) by engaging with discussion forums and crowdsourced resource links. (Connectivism, Constructivism, & Andragogy)

Microlearning

Minicourse Overview

Course Rationale

The goal of this minicourse is to reduce the cognitive load and help shed light on barriers (e.g., financial, lack of travel knowledge) that prevent people from traveling. Many beginners feel overwhelmed by “consumer traps” like high-ad spend booking sites, or lack of digital literacy to distinguish between a “tourist trap” and a credible local resource.

This course will act as a digital toolkit, helping travelers save time and money by teaching them how to find and book trips that truly align with their goals.

Possible Knowledge Gap(s)

Specific gaps I have identified are:

Novice and intermediate travelers often want an “authentic” experience but only have the tools or knowledge to be a “tourist”.
They often struggle to find cheap fares, align destinations with their interests or personality, and vet local establishments for excursions.

My minicourse will help address these gaps by providing the technical “how-to” in order to move past surface-level travel.

Instructional Design Choices & Learning Theories

Andragogy

My intended audience are adult learners.

Connectivism

In the course these theories will bind together. By using discussion forums where learners can gain insights and possibly recommendations from fellow travelers (ex., “Best Cities in Italy for Foodies” or “Excursions near Phuket”). This turns the course into a living Personal Learning Network (PLN) of travelers.

Constructivism

I will use a “Travel Destination Quiz” as a scaffolding tool. By answering questions about their preferred travel experience, budget, and timing, learners can help construct their own ideal itinerary. In addition to the quiz, corresponding resource links will be provided to help locate credible excursion vendors.

Andragogy

Connectivism

Constructivism

Strength: Adult learners are highly motivated by the "authentic assessment" of actually booking a real-world trip.

Limitation: If a learner has no immediate budget or "readiness" to travel, the practical nature of the course may feel less urgent.

Example of Learning: Autonomy, Intrinsic Motivation, Real-world Relevance, Formative Assessment, Collaborative Opportunities

Strength: The use of forums and external links connect travelers to others who share similar travel interests.

Limitation: Relies heavily on digital literacy. If a learner struggles with forum navigation or website interfaces, the "network" becomes a barrier.

Example of Learning: Discussion forums, building a Personal Learning Network (PLN) with travelers who share similar interests

Strength: It allows learners to build on their limited existing knowledge to create a personalized trip.

Limitation: Requires high decision-making skills. A learner who is prone to "choice paralysis" might struggle to narrow down their options.

Example of Learning: Closing the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), Cooperative Learning from a travel expert, Situated Learning through relevant content

Instructional Design Process

Learning Environment

I envision this course being entirely mobile-friendly and asynchronous, allowing learners to engage with the content whenever and wherever they feel most comfortable, especially during the planning process and on their trip.

Possible Instances of Impeded Learning

Beyond digital literacy, the main factors that might impede learning include a lack of basic budgeting tactics or a general inability to make firm decisions. To mitigate this, my design focuses on “temperature check” quizzes and clear visual directions to keep the learner focused and aligned.