Open Virtual Distance Learning
An instructional design studio for the distance cohort.
Purpose-built for asynchronous learning — from outcomes and alignment to accessibility, facilitation, and evidence of learning.
Design principles
Learning science, not lecture capture.
OVDL programmes fail when a campus module is simply uploaded. DISTIL's design layer forces every unit through a research-backed workflow before it reaches a learner.
Constructive alignment
Every activity and assessment maps to a stated outcome — visible to the learner.
Cognitive load budget
Word counts, video length, and task complexity budgeted per unit.
Accessibility by default
WCAG 2.2 AA baked into templates; alt-text, captions, and reading order enforced.
Evidence of learning
Every design choice is tied to a learning-outcome KPI the team monitors.
The OVDL studio workflow
A guided path from subject-matter expert to published cohort.
Step 1
Scoping
Learner personas, outcomes, and constraints.
Step 2
Alignment
Outcomes → activities → assessment matrix.
Step 3
Storyboarding
Unit-level flow with cognitive load budget.
Step 4
Accessibility
WCAG 2.2 AA review with automated + human checks.
Step 5
Facilitation
Cohort playbook, nudges, and office hours.
Step 6
Evidence
KPI wiring and cohort analytics before launch.
Unit designer · MBA520 · U3
Operating models under uncertainty
Outcome
Design an operating model that survives a 30% demand shock.
Activity
Case simulation with three scenarios, group reflection.
Assessment
Board memo (1,200 words) + peer critique rubric.
Load budget
Reading 45m · Video 22m · Task 90m
Accessibility
Captions ✓ · Alt-text ✓ · Reading order ✓
AI co-designer
"I found three outcomes with no matched assessment. I've drafted rubrics and flagged the module for review by the programme lead."
Quality gate
- Constructive alignmentPassed
- Accessibility auditPassed
- Cognitive load budgetPassed
- External examiner sign-offPending