This presentation will showcase Dublin City University’s (DCU) innovative “Discover” programme, a comprehensive, phased initiative designed to support students’ transition into higher education (HE). Recognising that true induction and transition support extends beyond initial event-driven orientation, the programme design approach strategically leverages the Moodle Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) to provide 24/7 access, and ongoing support throughout the crucial first academic cycle and beyond.
Discover employs a hybrid approach, blending self-paced interactive Moodle activities with live, synchronous events. Stages are curated for either Undergraduate or Postgraduate students. Short courses have gamified elements drawing on the ‘Level Up’ plugin, which rewards engagement with XP points and levels. These interactive activities, including the “Healthy Start” self-assessment powered by the “Compass Plus” self-assessment tool, aims to build resilience and familiarity with Moodle.
Subsequent stages integrate self-assessment tools for core life skills development, with synchronous events and digital badges. It culminates in courses looking supporting diversity and inclusion, further embedding students within the university’s community.
Discover offers a multi-dimensional developmental experience, developed using learning design frameworks, resulting in a welcoming and engaging course designed to the highest pedagogical and UX standards. By strategically phasing interventions and using Moodle’s interactive capabilities, DCU aims to enhance engagement, belonging, and academic success. This presentation will share insights into the programme’s design features, and its potential as a model for institutions seeking to create impactful and scalable, just-in-time support. Elements have been designed to allow faculty to sub-course these trusted resources into their course material.
Attendees will leave with an understanding of how to design an engaging learning path for new students using a variety of Moodle tools in creative ways, and inspiration to try this course design approach. Back-ups of selected activities will be available to evaluate and adapt.
Authors:
Annabella Stover, Dep. Dean of Students, DCU
Sam Taylor, Team Manager, Catalyst