Digital Resource Creation for Blended & Online Learning

The Department of English and Cultural Studies organised a Quality Improvement Program (QIP) on Digital Resource Creation for Blended & Online Learning at CHRIST University, Pune Lavasa Campus, from 23 February to 2 March 2026. The program was designed to equip faculty members with the skills and knowledge required to effectively create, curate, and deliver digital learning resources in an increasingly hybrid educational environment. The QIP brought together a group of experienced resource persons who shared their expertise across different aspects of digital pedagogy. The sessions were conducted in a blended format, combining in-person engagement with online learning components, thereby reflecting the very model the program aimed to promote. The initiative emphasized the importance of integrating technology into teaching practices to enhance student engagement, and accessibility.

Dr. Jibrael Jos, Associate Dean, Associate Professor, and Leadership Trainer,  contributed a session on Digital Storytelling, demonstrating how narrative techniques can be effectively used in educational contexts. He emphasized the role of storytelling in making content more relatable and impactful, encouraging participants to incorporate creativity into their teaching methods. Dr. Abhijeet Birari, Assistant Professor, School of Business & Management (MBA), addressed Platform-specific Optimization, particularly for platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and edX. His sessions guided participants on how to tailor content for different online learning platforms, focusing on structuring courses, enhancing user experience, and meeting platform-specific requirements. This component was particularly useful for faculty interested in expanding their reach through online course offerings.

Mr. John Steward, Assistant Professor from the Department of English and Cultural Studies conducted a session on Micro-credentials, exploring their design, practical application, and implementation. He highlighted the growing importance of short-term, skill-based certifications in higher education and how institutions can integrate these into their curriculum to meet evolving learner needs. Dr. David Joseph, Assistant Professor, School of Commerce, Finance and Accountancy led a session on Digital Content Development and Technology Integration, focusing on how educators can design structured, interactive, and pedagogically sound digital materials. His sessions highlighted practical tools and strategies for creating engaging content, ensuring that participants gained hands-on exposure to digital platforms and content creation techniques. 

In addition to the in-person sessions, faculty members also completed the Blended Learning Toolkit, an online course authorized by Columbia University and offered through Coursera. This served as a supplementary learning experience, allowing participants to further explore concepts related to instructional design, learner engagement, and the effective use of digital tools in blended learning environments.

Overall, the QIP successfully addressed the growing need for digital competence among educators. It provided a comprehensive overview of digital resource creation, from conceptualization to delivery, while also introducing participants to emerging trends such as micro-credentials and platform-based learning. The program not only enhanced the technical skills of the participants but also encouraged a shift in pedagogical perspective, promoting a more flexible, inclusive, and learner-centered approach to education. In conclusion, the Quality Improvement Program served as a valuable platform for professional development, empowering educators to navigate and contribute effectively to the evolving landscape of blended and online learning.