Carpe Diem - A team based approach to learning design

A good way of creating fast, effective, forward looking learning design is to use a team-based learning design process called Carpe Diem. The idea behind Carpe Diem is that every moment of the time during the workshop is spent on designing something that can be put into immediate use with learners – so I use the term ‘Carpe Diem’, Latin for ‘Seize the Day’. 

Carpe Diem  learning design process: the Basic framework 

Carpe Diem (for modules)  process is broken up into six steps;
  1. Write a blueprint – envision the future
    Here you work together in your Carpe Diem pods to lay out the essential aspects of what you aim to achieve.
    Your output will be an agreed mission statement  You can get AI to help you with ideas. 
  2. Make a storyboard – become a designer
    Here you draw out the process of your learning, teaching and assessment in a visual way, working out your schedule and importantly crerating  a sense of flow and alignment between the components. Use the 5 stage model as a rough scaffold and your calendar for the delivery of the learning to participants to help you plan. It’s your plan for transformation and impact.
  3. Build your prototype online
    Now you try out your design in the online environment, and create some real practical testable e-tivities.
  4. Check reality
    Your designs are tried out by your colleagues as ‘reality checkers’, to give you productive feedback. Let them have a go and then listen carefully to their feedback. Try not to be too defensive. You will be doing the same for others.  You can can get feedback from AI too here. 
  5. Review and adjust
    Preview the work so far, make adjustments, refine timings, flag up places to return to, indicate what additional work is needed and who should be responsible for it. You are ready to do the action plan when you can see a way from the storyboard and prototypes to an operational design vision of your online or blended course.  Ask AI to walk through your designs.
  6. Planning your next steps
    Now the team is ready to build an action plan together. We use the MOSCOW action planning process - but you can also ask AI to help you