Transforming Digital Learning in Universities
The Impact of LDN Apprenticeships’ Digital Learning Designer Programme
on Higher Education
In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, digital learning is no longer a supplementary tool – it’s central to how universities deliver their teaching and engage with students. To meet the increasing demand for high-quality, technology-driven learning experiences, institutions are investing in upskilling their teams with the latest digital learning and instructional design expertise.
One powerful way universities can equip their staff with the skills they need to succeed in this new environment is through the LDN Digital Learning Designer Lvl 5 Apprenticeship. This program is specifically designed to provide employees with advanced knowledge and practical skills in e-learning, instructional design, and digital content creation. By leveraging the apprenticeship, universities can ensure their staff are not only capable of designing engaging digital experiences but also that they are well-prepared to meet the changing needs of students.
But how does this apprenticeship make a real difference? Let’s take a look at the impact some of our apprentices are already having across UK universities.
Elin Jones
Digital Learning Designer
The University of Sunderland in London
At the University of Sunderland in London, Elin Jones is playing her part to upskill students, improve their output and increase their employability. Elin established that the university had invested in licenses for the Adobe suite for students but that they did not necessarily have the skills to use it effectively. Elin’s solution is an introductory InDesign course which uses practical activities to address the diverse needs of learners and help them master specific InDesign functions.
Before launch, Elin worked with her LDN Skills Coach to carry out in-depth learner analysis. She designed and facilitated User Testing and UX workshops which resulted in her making several improvements to her eLearning product. As a result, she introduced flexibility to make the course more suited to her target audience, who have a range of prior knowledge and experience. She also added additional opportunities for learners to showcase their creativity.
With the course now rolled out and learners participating in the eLearning modules, Elin continues to evaluate and iterate the product. She is using skills learned during her apprenticeship to collect feedback, make improvements and further enhance the impact that her course has on the students at the University.
“Working through the apprenticeship has been a game-changer,” Elin said. “It’s given me new insights into how I can use digital tools like branching scenarios to make learning more interactive and inclusive. I’ve also learned how to implement new approaches, like user testing workshops which have given me invaluable insights into the courses I have created and enabled me to make those courses more engaging and impactful for our students.”
Jim Atkinson
Staff Development Trainer &
E-Learning Developer
The University of Northampton
At the University of Northampton, Jim Atkinson has been leveraging his apprenticeship training to improve the university’s processes for analysing, designing, and developing eLearning for internal stakeholders. His most recent project has been working to create a customer service training programme for staff across the university.
With a keen eye on how AI tools are likely to impact the development phase of eLearning projects, Jim has focused heavily on analysis and design, creating detailed scoping processes and project management toolkits that mean each eLearning project at UON is well planned, aligned to business objectives and delivers great results and ROI.
Jim commented, “The apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to dive deeper into the analysis and design phases of eLearning projects, as well as to explore new eLearning authoring tools and technologies. The tools, techniques and approaches covered in LDN’s learning content have helped me to structure my own approach and to create much more detailed, meaningful, and impactful processes and eLearning for UON. It’s exciting to be part of the university’s digital journey and to contribute to creating a more dynamic learning environment.”
Unlocking Potential Through the Apprenticeship Levy
What makes this apprenticeship even more accessible is that it’s fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, allowing universities to upskill their teams without impacting their budgets. On top of this, apprentices who complete the program automatically gain Associate Membership of the Association of Learning Technology (ACMALT), a respected credential in the digital learning field.
Future-Proof Your Institution
The LDN Digital Learning Designer Lvl 5 Apprenticeship is more than just a training program – it’s a strategic investment in the future of your university. As digital learning becomes an essential part of education, ensuring your team has the skills to thrive in this new landscape is critical. Apprentices like Jack, Elin, and Jim are already making a tangible difference at their universities, and your institution could be next.
Ready to unlock the potential of your digital learning team?
Get in touch with our team today.