Driving innovation in professional development for educators

York University

eLearning

Education and learning

UX/UI design

UX copywriting

Software development

Instructional design

Scriptwriting

Illustration

Animation

Editing

Sound/music

Over the past five years, York University has developed innovative course models to enhance student engagement and retention in technology-driven teaching spaces. In partnership with eCampus Ontario, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing online learning in Ontario’s post-secondary institutions, Sandbox was engaged to design and produce six professional development modules.

The modules cover key topics like competency-based evaluation, community building, microcredentials, HyFlex learning, and compassionate communication strategies, equipping higher education faculty with modern tools and knowledge to adapt to the rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Explore the live course

Each module features a dynamic mix of videos with animations and live footage, interactive knowledge checks, reflective workbook activities, and bonus learning content, including extended interviews and text resources. Learners earn digital badges upon completing the asynchronous modules, which blend theoretical insights with practical strategies to enhance teaching practices.

We designed the first module as a prototype, shaping the approach for the subsequent six. To date, three modules have been completed, covering topics like competency-based evaluation, microcredentials, and technology-integrated pedagogy. The first two modules represent the completion of Phase 1, while the third module advances Phase 2. Our team is gathering analytics from these modules to refine the learning experience before finalizing the remaining three.

This platform offers an innovative approach to professional development, working to align its content delivery with the progressive pedagogical practices it promotes.