Blended and Online Learning and Teaching (BOLT)
Updating teaching for digital learning
Are you interested in digital learning? Would you like to explore the latest digital technologies and teaching philosophies for educating 21st century learners?
BOLT offers K-12 professionals the opportunity to engage in meaningful professional development and to explore opportunities and innovative approaches in flexible, sustainable education.
Develop the skills and understanding to:
- Expand your teaching opportunities and earn educational credentials.
- Enhance pedagogy to support online, blended, and distance learning.
- Apply current education and technology-based research and theory to teaching situations.
- Collaborate and learn with your peers and contribute to a professional learning network.
Designed for the working professional
Utilizing Athabasca University’s Master of Education in Open, Digital and Distance Education course curriculum, BOLT is comprised of nine one-credit modules designed specifically for teaching professionals. Participants gain professional knowledge, building on and extending the art and craft of teaching in the digital world. BOLT provides busy educators access to graduate level studies at a manageable pace. Each BOLT module is delivered entirely online, offers a self-contained learning experience, and can be taken in any order. Schedules run counter to the intense periods of the K-12 calendar, allowing teachers the opportunity for immersive, sustained learning.
Assignments include relevant and current K-12 educational research alongside opportunities to create individual applications to teaching practice. Before, during, and after the program, participants are encouraged to connect with their professional learning community through the BOLT Multi-Authored Blog. This innovative online space seeks to nurture ongoing professional learning and engagement with current educational research.
This innovative module offering for the professional development of practicing teachers is offered through the graduate progrmas in Distance Education (DE) department.
Important: If you already have an Athabasca University (AU) student ID number, please login using your AU student ID number before completing your application.
Apply online – you will need to submit the application fee. There are no educational prerequisites.
Once accepted into BOLT students may register for modules through their myAU portal.
For more information, you can contact us at bolt@athabascau.ca
Throughout all the modules, BOLT students will:
- Build, curate and maintain professional learning networks (PLN) for online and blended teachers.
- Explore webinars, online PD, MOOCs, social software, and open educational resources (OERs) for ongoing professional learning.
- Develop contributions to a professional learning network via sharing, collaborating and providing feedback.
- Engage in evidence-based, professional conversations with colleagues regarding digital learning and teaching.
Areas of study
The BOLT program is based on the modularization of three 3-credit MEd courses: MDDE 621, MDDE 603, and MDDE 620. Each 3-credit course has been reconstituted into three 1-credit modules. The modules maintain the same level of academic quality as the original courses, including equivalent content, assignments, and learning outcomes.
While students can take BOLT modules in any order, the curriculum is grouped into three main subject areas:
Online learning and teaching
- BOLT 671 - Introduction to K-12 Online Learning
- BOLT 672 - Online Teaching for K-12
- BOLT 673 - Advanced Study in K-12 Online Teaching
Equivalency: MDDE 621 Online Teaching in Distance Education and Training
Learning theory and systems analysis
- BOLT 674 - Learning Theories
- BOLT 675 - Instructional Design Elements
- BOLT 676 - Systems Theory and Learning
Equivalency: MDDE 603 Foundations of Instructional Design: Systems Analysis and Learning Theory
Digital tools for learning
- BOLT 677 - K-12 Digital Tools for Change
- BOLT 678 - Evaluating K-12 Digital Tools
- BOLT 679 - Pedagogy for Digital Learning
Equivalency: MDDE 620 Technology in Education Training
Online interaction
Students communicate with the instructor and each other through computer-mediated communication (e-mail and computer conferencing). Assignments are submitted by electronic file transfer. Options for web conference (e.g. Adobe Connect) participation are provided and, to some degree, are dependent upon decisions of individual instructors and students.
Weekly time commitment
The recommended amount of time to spend upon a module will vary from student to student. However, the originating graduate courses have been designed so that successful students will spend between 10 to 12 hours each week. For the four weeks of a module, the first three weeks will include weekly online activity. During the fourth week, the online activity becomes optional and is intended as a time to complete the final assignment. Early access will allow BOLT students to prepare in advance of each module offering.
2022-2023
| 2022 | |
|---|---|
| Jan 17 - Feb 11 | BOLT 671 Introduction to K-12 Online Learning BOLT 674 Learning Theories BOLT 677 Digital Tools for Change |
| Mar 7 - Apr 1 | BOLT 672 Online Teaching for K-12 BOLT 675 Instructional Design Elements BOLT 678 Evaluating K-12 Digital Tools |
| May 9 - Jun 2 | BOLT 673 Advanced Study in K-12 Online Teaching BOLT 676 Systems Theory and Learning BOLT 679 Pedagogy for Digital Learning |
| Jul 11 - Aug 5 | BOLT 671 Introduction to K-12 Online Learning BOLT 674 Learning Theories BOLT 677 Digital Tools for Change |
| Sep 26 - Oct 21 | BOLT 672 Online Teaching for K - 12 BOLT 675 Instructional Design Elements BOLT 678 Evaluating K-12 Digital Tools |
| Nov 7 - Dec 2 | BOLT 673 Advanced Study in K - 12 Online Teaching BOLT 676 System Theory and Learning BOLT 679 Pedagogy for Digital Learning |
| 2023 | |
|---|---|
| Jan 16 - Feb 10 | BOLT 671 Introduction to K-12 Online Learning BOLT 674 Learning Theories BOLT 677 Digital Tools for Change |
| Mar 6 - Mar 31 | BOLT 672 Online Teaching for K-12 BOLT 675 Instructional Design Elements BOLT 678 Evaluating K-12 Digital Tools |
| May 8 - Jun 2 | BOLT 673 Advanced Study in K-12 Online Teaching BOLT 676 Systems Theory and Learning BOLT 679 Pedagogy for Digital Learning |
| Jul 10 - Aug 4 | BOLT 671 Introduction to K-12 Online Learning BOLT 674 Learning Theories BOLT 677 Digital Tools for Change |
| Sep 25 - Oct 20 | BOLT 672 Online Teaching for K - 12 BOLT 675 Instructional Design Elements BOLT 678 Evaluating K-12 Digital Tools |
| Nov 6 - Dec 1 | BOLT 673 Advanced Study in K - 12 Online Teaching BOLT 676 System Theory and Learning BOLT 679 Pedagogy for Digital Learning |
BOLT modules will be offered as scheduled above but are subject to minimum enrolment.
BOLT Modules List:
BOLT 671 Introduction to K-12 Online Learning
BOLT 672 Online Teaching for K-12
BOLT 673 Advanced Study in K-12 Online Teaching
BOLT 674 Learning Theories
BOLT 675 Instructional Design Elements
BOLT 676 Systems Theory and Learning
BOLT 677 Digital Tools for Change
BOLT 678 Evaluating K-12 Digital Tools
BOLT 679 Pedagogy for Digital Learning
Graduate Certificate in Technology-Based Learning (GCTBL)
Upon successful completion of all nine BOLT modules, students are eligible to obtain an Athabasca University Graduate Certificate in Technology-Based Learning:
To obtain the GCTBL, BOLT students must:
- Complete all nine BOLT modules;
- Submit application for admission and advanced standing to the GCTBL;
- Pay the admission fee.
Upon GCTBL program director acceptance and admission, students will receive the GCTBL certificate through Athabasca University.
Master of Education course equivalency
The BOLT program is based on the modularization of three 3-credit MEd courses: MDDE 621, MDDE 603, and MDDE 620. Each 3-credit course has been reconstituted into three 1-credit modules. The modules maintain the same level of academic quality as the original courses, including the equivalent content, assignments, and learning outcomes. BOLT modules can be applied toward advanced standing for the equivalent MEd course as outlined below:
- BOLT 671 Introduction to K-12 Online Learning
- BOLT 672 Online Teaching for K-12
- BOLT 673 Advanced Study in K-12 Online Teaching
Equivalency: MDDE 621 Online Teaching in Distance Education and Training
- BOLT 674 Learning Theories
- BOLT 675 Instructional Design Elements
- BOLT 676 Systems Theory and Learning
Equivalency: MDDE 603 Foundations of Instructional Design: Systems Analysis and Learning Theory
- BOLT 677 Digital Tools for change
- BOLT 678 Evaluating K-12 Digital Tools
- BOLT 679 Pedagogy for Digital Learning
Equivalency: MDDE 620 Technology in Education and Training
Ladder into the Master of Education program
To ladder into the Master of Education in Open, Digital and Distance Education Program, BOLT students must:
- Complete the set of 3 sequential BOLT modules that compose each of the 3 graduate course equivalents (i.e. 9 modules in total);
- Submit an application to the Master of Education in Open, Digital and Distance Education Program. Include a letter requesting credit for the completed sequential set of BOLT modules.
Upon acceptance into the Masters Program, credit will be granted according to program regulations.
Salary qualifications
Completion of all 9 BOLT modules and graduation with the Graduate Certificate in Technology-Based Learning may influence salary qualifications.
For more information regarding salary evaluation processes, please contact the Alberta Teacher Qualification Service.
BOLT status
In BOLT modules, the lowest acceptable grade is B-. Students who receive a grade lower than B- or receive more than one grade of B- or lower may be required to withdraw from BOLT.
| Application Fee | $124 |
| Tuition fee per module | $678 $759 |
Withdrawals
Between 3 and 5 days after the module start date, students will receive a refund minus $201 withdrawal processing fee.At 6 days and later, if a student withdraws from a module, the student will not receive any refund towards the module course fee.
To withdraw, please download the Withdrawal Request Form and send completed forms to bolt@athabascau.ca.
Tax credit
Tax credit for tuition, education and textbook amounts (T2202) may be claimed if requirements are met. Please refer to the AU Graduate Calendar for additional information.
Athabasca University, Canada's Open University, is dedicated to the removal of barriers that restrict access to and success in university-level study and to increasing equality of educational opportunity for adult learners worldwide. AU is dedicated to removing the educational, geographical, financial, social, cultural, and other barriers that often limit access to post secondary achievement. AU staff is committed to excellence in teaching, research and scholarship, and to being of service to the general public.
Learner supports
Student support is offered for skillful use of technology, online study skills, research materials, and specific learner needs.
Technology support
BOLT modules require students to have access to certain computer hardware and software. AU's standard computing platform is a computer running Microsoft Windows with MS Office. This is the primary system supported by AU's IT Help Desk. Only very limited assistance for other hardware and software platforms is offered. For complete details please refer to the AU IT system requirements.
eText specific requirements
AU courses and modules that use eTextbooks may have specific technical requirements. See the eText Initiative website for updated information.
Library and research resources
The AU library offers a wide variety of scholarly resources and student supports. Please view the helpful AU Library tutorial. Under the Get Help tab on the Library website, follow the links to research, writing and referencing help. The Write Site assists students with academic writing suggestions and various levels of support. On the web are numerous sites, such as the Purdue Owl Writing Lab, to support the proper use of the American Psychological Association (APA).
Study-related resources
A variety of study-related resources are available through AU and on the web. BOLT has been designed with the learning needs of busy K-12 teachers and administrators in the timing and delivery of the modules. Yet, it is a fine balance as an adult student managing professional and personal demands. Although the convenience of independent learning may appear to require less effort, in actuality it requires more discipline and self-motivation. As a distance student, you will learn to budget your time, stay motivated, and complete your academic requirements. Suggestions for successful online learning, in addition to information available through the listed helpful external links, may enhance your learning experience. Additional learner supports may be found through Counselling Services.
Celebrate
Shop the Athabasca University online store for a wide selection of merchandise, apparel, sportswear and accessories. Show your pride, spirit and support by wearing your Athabasca University gear.
Because the field of blended and online learning continues to grow, BOLT curriculum requires participants to develop a Professional Learning Network (PLN). An integral component to a PLN is locating professional organizations and associations that will support ongoing and current professional learning. The following list is only a beginning to building your own PLN. Visit and bookmark these websites so you may learn of conferences, webinars and changes within the professional learning of K-12 online and blended educators.
- Blended and Online Learning and Teaching (BOLT) Multi-Authored Blog
- Community of Inquiry (CoI)
- Inclusive Educators' Toolbox
- Alberta Teachers Association Educational Technology Specialist Council
- CanELearn
- Aurora Institute
- Open and Distance Learning Association of Australia
- European Distance and E-Learning Network (EDEN)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need to be employed as a teacher? | BOLT modules are designed for K-12 educators. Recent, part-time, or full teaching employment is desirable but not required. |
| Do I need to be teaching fully online to be admitted? | There is a continuum of distributed or distance education and the lines of definition are blurring. Blended teaching models, which combine various aspects of face-to-face and online learning, are becoming very common and BOLT modules will support teachers wherever they are, or plan to be, on this continuum. Educators who would like to enhance their teaching skills in preparation for teaching online or in a blended classroom will find BOLT modules highly useful. |
| Do I need to be an Alberta teacher? | Being an Alberta teacher is not required. BOLT participants are usually K-12 teachers employed in Canada. BOLT modules are designed with a working professional in mind and reference to teaching experiences may form the basis of discussions or assignments. Module materials cover K-12 teaching within Canada and beyond. |
| What is the prerequisite for admission to BOLT? | There is no educational prerequisite. BOLT is designed for K-12 educators teaching in the digital age. |
| How many credits will be earned upon completion of the BOLT? | Upon completion of all nine BOLT modules, you will have earned nine credits. Specific combinations of three modules can be used for credit in the Graduate Certificate in Technology-Based Learning (GCTBL) or Master of Education Programs. |
| What if I already have a Master of Education? | Educational technology is quickly changing all levels of education and staying current with this shift in teaching and learning is the foundation to BOLT modules. Educators with a graduate degree such as administrators (e.g. educational leadership) may find BOLT an enhancement to understanding the fast-paced educational changes related to digital technologies. Each BOLT module is a self-contained learning experience that allows flexibility of professional learning for each individual. BOLT participants may take one, some, or all nine modules without being committed beyond the four-week duration of the module offering. For a more detailed description of the BOLT modules, which originate in three graduate courses from within the graduate programs in DE, please review the module descriptions and objectives. BOLT modules have been enhanced with a focus on blended and online K-12 pedagogy and situations. |
| Can I audit these modules? | We do not offer an audit option for these modules, however, with the fast pace of educational technology and its deep implications for education, BOLT modules provide unique professional learning opportunities. Those who hold a Masters of Education but require updating of educational leadership skills will find that BOLT modules effectively fill this professional learning need. Completing one, some, or all of the modules would allow for educational leaders to be current in the theory, techniques, and decision-making involved with blended and online teaching. Please contact bolt@athabascau.ca for a detailed response. |
| What if I already have a Master of Education in Distance Education? | Please send an email to bolt@athabascau.ca for a personal response. |
| Is BOLT professional learning recognized by other educational institutions? | Graduates of BOLT may receive the Graduate Certificate in Technology-Based Learning (GCTBL) through Athabasca University. This Certificate requires nine graduate credits and it is acknowledged as a graduate certificate as awarded by Canadian universities. Athabasca University is accredited through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. |
| Electronic Textbook? | BOLT is offered online with access to an electronic textbook. BOLT curriculum includes a variety of learning resources and activities designed to connect the content of the modules with the experiences of the being an educator. There is a BOLT speaker series of noted scholars delivered over the web. Learning resources include current journal articles, a comprehensive study guide, Open Educational Resources, educational videos, podcasts, infographics and electronic textbooks. For further details please review Athabasca University eText Initiative. |
| How proficient with educational technology do I need to be to be successful in BOLT modules? | Although some working knowledge of educational technology is required (eg. email communications, Internet searches etc.) the intent of BOLT is to deepen and strengthen the pedagogy and understanding of what it means for K-12 educators to teach and enable their students to learn with technology. |
| Why should I take BOLT instead of other programs through the CDE? | BOLT is specifically designed for the K-12 educator. The timing of modules runs counter to the intense periods of the K-12 teaching year. Each four-week module, with three weeks of online activity required, allows for a short and immersive experience that nurtures a Professional Learning Network (PLN) and a Community of Practice (CoP). |
| When are BOLT Modules offered? | BOLT Modules are scheduled to avoid the busiest times in the K-12 school year. BOLT calendar of module offerings. |
| Do I have to take all nine BOLT Modules in succession? | BOLT is designed as a series of professional learning opportunities. You can take one, some or all nine of the BOLT modules as suits your personal and professional learning needs. There is no requirement to complete the modules in order or to complete them by a set date. They are designed to be complete learning experiences that you can access in time to meet your professional growth plans and professional learning needs. |
| Is the work load manageable while teaching full time? | Yes – this is the intention – professional learning that is more than a one day offering (which tends to be a passive reception of content). The modules are timed to run counterpoint to the busy times in the school year. BOLT calendar. |
| Is the time commitment manageable while balancing a full time teaching position? | The design of the modules is sensitive to the "working lives of busy teachers". The assignments are developed with a fine balance between graduate level rigour and the reality of demanding professional learning while teaching. Approximately ten hours per week is the expected time allotment - this includes reading, participating in asynchronous discussions, and completing assignments; (ten hours per week is also the time expected for a regular grad course). The assignments are all designed to establish skills and then extend them with the upcoming modules. |
| Is completing all nine modules equivalent to a Master of Education degree? | Upon completion of all nine BOLT modules, you will have earned nine credits. Specific combinations of three modules can be used for credit in the Graduate Certificate in Technology-Based Learning (GCTBL) or MEd programs. |
Updated September 07, 2023 by Digital & Web Operations (web_services@athabascau.ca)