Sociotechnical Learning Environments (Online)

Using classic and contemporary philosophies of technology and education, you'll critically analyse technologies and the actors involved in design, implementation and use. This 8-week, online course will analyse learning environments and develop specialist skills to meet your career goals. 

You'll analyse learning environments from the perspective of connecting the social, physical and digital in networks of the human and non-human to challenge perspectives of online and offline learning.

Postgraduate micro-credential certificate

Once you have finished this eight week course, you will be awarded an official University of Birmingham Postgraduate micro-credential certificate (worth 10 academic credits) and a transcript. You will be able to use these academic credits to apply for advanced entry to the University of Birmingham’s full Online PGCert Design for Learning Environments qualification.

Enjoy the flexibility of online learning with convenient modules that prioritise immersive activities and lively discussions. Guided by practitioners and designers in the industry, you’ll take part in interactive learning activities and gain innovative techniques for both digital and traditional learning.

By the end of this course you will be able to:

• Examine empirical and theoretical research literature on the affordances of technology in learning and teaching environments
• Identify key learning environments in your own context and explore how the physical, social and digital environment connect
• Evaluate ethical and equality issues involved with adoption of technology in networked learning environments

You may also be eligible to apply with a lower second class degree plus 2 years’ work experience in design, computing or education, or no degree plus 5 or more years’ work experience in the above areas.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

The fee includes any online resources, including full access to the online learning platform, course materials and required digital reading materials. The fee does not include any personal expenses for new technical equipment or office supplies.

What are my funding options?

Online postgraduate study is a significant financial commitment, and we want you to be completely aware of the associated costs – and all the support available – before becoming a student with us. There are a number of funding options available to help you, including loans, scholarships and employer reimbursement.

How to apply

If you have a question about your application or the application process, including whether your current degree qualifies you for the programme, contact us using the details below, and we will be happy to help. We’re ready to answer any questions and are available to provide guidance, advice and honest feedback.

Career roles:

• Instructional Designer
• Digital Learning Designer
• Learning Experience Designer
• Learning Architect
• e-learning Designer
• Learning Technologist
• Learning Developer
• Digital Learning Officer
• Learning Adviser

Career support

Your relationship with the University of Birmingham will continue long after your graduation. To make the most of your future career prospects, we will help you gain the skills, knowledge and attributes that employers are looking for.

Your online student experience

As one of the largest providers of distance learning in the UK, we offer you a prestigious online education that matches the on-campus experience, taught by our same expert professors and lecturers. You have the flexibility to study from wherever you are in the world, control your daily schedule, and still benefit from the academic, wellbeing, and career support as part of our global postgraduate community.

Your support team

From the moment you enrol to the time you graduate, we will give you all the support you need to succeed. Whether you have questions about your application, assignment deadlines, technical issues or careers opportunities, we’re here to help.