Page
Application
Completion requirements
The Practice section of each lesson is where you can help your participants “seal the deal” on their learning. As you prepare to write these “assignments,” you might start by revisiting the learning outcomes for your lesson. What did you want them to learn? What do you think is missing from what you have given them thus far in the lesson? You might focus on that in the Practice.
For most viewers, the Practice section will be optional. That means you want to create inviting assignments that will draw in the person who is genuinely interested in your topic. Your Practice assignments might even build toward the final project that can earn them a badge. If you choose that direction, each Practice section can be like a stepping stone toward the final product. This microcourse is actually structured somewhat in that way.
Your Practice section doesn’t have to be complicated. Just give your participants something to do that helps them apply their learning.
Deeper Dive
Here are some of the kinds of application activities that you can have them do:
Have them interact with the material in the lesson. Have them point out places where they agree or disagree, backing up their thoughts with reasons. Perhaps have them apply the material to their own life.
Ask students to keep a daily journal for a week where they document their thoughts, reactions, and questions about the lesson. This can include reflections on how the material impacts them personally or how they see it applying to real-world situations.
Have learners create or analyze a hypothetical situation related to the lesson. They should apply the theoretical knowledge they’ve gained to navigate the scenario, proposing solutions or outcomes based on their understanding.
Design a role-playing activity where learners take on different characters or professional roles related to the course material. This exercise should challenge them to apply their knowledge in a simulated real-life context, encouraging empathy and practical understanding.
Assign learners to conduct interviews with individuals who have expertise or experience relevant to the course content. They should prepare questions that probe the application of theoretical knowledge in practical settings and reflect on the insights gained.
Have learners work on a case study that requires them to apply their learned knowledge to analyze and propose solutions to a real-world problem. This activity should encourage critical thinking and the practical application of the concepts in the lesson.
Create a puzzle or problem-solving activity that requires learners to use their theoretical knowledge to find a solution. This could be a logic puzzle, a problem, or a scenario that needs a creative solution based on course material.
Task learners with completing a project that requires comprehensive application of the course content. This could involve research, creating a product, or developing a presentation. The project should allow them to explore an area of interest in depth, applying what they have learned in a practical manner.
Instruct learners to write a research paper where they take a position on a topic related to the course content. They should use their knowledge to support their stance with evidence and analysis, demonstrating deep engagement with the material and critical thinking skills.