Innovative Design and Technology in Education Online (M.Ed.)

Shape the future of learning with human-centered innovation, applied learning theory, and cutting-edge technologies in education through analytics and human-centered design.

Duration

15 months (3 semesters + summer)

Credits

30 Credit Hours

Format

100% Online

Modules

20 x 7-week modules

Innovative Design and Technology in Education Online Overview

The master’s in Innovative Design and Technology in Education (IDeaTE) is an online Master of Education degree program for students interested in learning how to create and study technology mediated learning environments by leveraging learning theories, human centered design, learning analytics, AI and other emerging technologies. The IDeaTE Online M.Ed. is designed to meet the needs of busy professionals and those who want to pursue graduate study while continuing to grow in their current role, providing access to a Vanderbilt University degree and the opportunity to advance their careers through gaining knowledge and skills in:

Learning Theories

Applying theories of learning to design and analyze technology-enhanced learning experiences
Emerging Technologies

Leveraging environments and tools, like analytics and generative AI, to enhance learning
Data-driven Analysis

Designing and analyzing learning experiences that use analytics to inform future iterations

Flexible Course Structure

Full-Time Students

Take 3 modules (4.5 credits) at a time, repeated twice each semester = 6 modules (9 credits) per semester

Part-Time Students

Take 1-2 modules at a time, twice each semester = 2-4 modules (3-6 credits) per semester

The IDeaTE Online M.Ed. program is a flexible three semester + summer program that includes 30 credit hours with a capstone project demonstrating application of learning outcomes from the program. The IDeaTE curriculum is divided into 20, 7-week, 1.5 credit hour modules. Learning in each module combines engaging asynchronous activities using innovative tools with synchronous meetings, providing both flexibility and meaningful interaction with instructors and peers.

Activities support learning about instructional design by connecting theories of learning, design thinking, emerging technologies and analytic processes.

Key Application Info

Applications are open for Fall 2026 and are reviewed on a rolling basis. Admissions decisions are communicated in 4-6 weeks.

IDeaTE Program Facts

Program Director: Andrew Hostetler

Admissions Coordinator: Shawn Blomker

Admission Terms: Summer, Fall

Credit Hours: 30

Program Curriculum Cores of Study

Learning Core

The learning core focuses on theories of learning and their application to and implications for the design and analysis of learning experiences in formal and informal settings. An important focus of the program is the use of theoretical perspectives on learning in context to provide the foundation for the design work.

Design Core

The design core explores implications of the learning core and emerging learning technologies for envisioning and building learning experiences through human centered design processes.

Analysis Core

The analysis core attends to systematic evaluation and program research efforts, including a focus on learning analytics: using data about learners and learning processes to understand and improve learning environments and guide iterative design.

Modules and Capstone
IDeaTE is built around using learning theory, human centered design, and analysis to develop learning environments that leverage digital tools and technology to enhance both learning and our understanding of how people learn.
Learning Core (6 credit hours)
- Learning Sciences
  - Module 1 – LSI: Mind, Body, and Affect
  - Module 2 – LSII: Sociocultural Perspectives
- Innovation and AI for Learning
  - Module 3 –Minds and Machines: Technology, Cognition, and Learner Agency
  - Module 4 –Technology in Community: Collaboration, Culture, and Learning
Design Core (6 credit hours)
- Designing Future Learning Technologies
  - Module 5 – Designing and Dreaming for the Future
  - Module 6 – Prototyping and Testing Digital Designs
- Human Centered Design
  - Module 7 – Responsive Design
  - Module 8 – Designing for Learning
Analysis Core (6 credit hours)
- Research in Learning and Design
  - Module 9 – Designing Inquiry
  - Module 10 – Inquiry and Impact with Digital Tools
- Learning Analytics
  - Module 11 – Data Management and Visualizations
  - Module 12 – Introduction to Data Analysis
Ethics in Designing Learning Environments (3 credit hours)
- Module 13 – Ethics in Systems and Institutions
- Module 14 – Designing for Disruption
Capstone Seminar (3 credit hours)
- Introduction to Capstone and Designing a Proposal
  - Module 15 – Designing your Inquiry Path
- Finalizing the Capstone and Communicating Outcomes
  - Module 16 – From Vision to Contribution

Micro-credential and Certificate Pathways

In addition to the core curriculum, the program includes the option to earn a micro-credential or certificate

*Students have the option of either earning the Learning Analytics AND the Human Centered AI in Education certificates, OR they can spend their four elective modules to earn the TELL micro-certificate

TELL

Transforming Educator Leadership in Language Learning

Leading Research Partnerships with Multilingual Communities
Facilitating Adult Learning: Coaching, Collaboration, and Change
Mentoring Teachers of Multilingual Learners
Cultivating Multilingualism: Leadership Strategies

AI in Education

Human Centered AI in Education

Module 1 – Technology and Community
Module 2 – Minds and Machines
Module 3 - Artificial Intelligence in Educational Research and Practice
Module 4 - Teaching and Learning About Artificial Intelligence

Learning Analytics

Data-Driven Approaches to Learning Design

Module 1 – Introduction to Data Analysis
Module 2 – Data Management and Visualizations
Module 3—Machine Learning in Education: Theory and Models
Module 4— Machine Learning in Education: Educational Applications

Certificate & Micro-Credential Coursework
The certificate and micro-credential pathways encompass 6 credit hours of your education. You may pick one of the following.
- Transforming Educator Leadership in Language Learning (TELL) Mini-Certificate
  - Module 17- Leading Research Partnerships with Multilingual Communities
  - Module 18 - Facilitating Adult Learning: Coaching, Collaboration, and Change
  - Module 19 - Mentoring Teachers of Multilingual Learners: Building Capacity
  - Module 20 - Cultivating Multilingualism: Leadership and Program Strategies
- Emerging Learning Technologies and AI in Education (ELT + AI) Mini-Certificate
  - Module 17: Foundations of AI and LLMs for Learning
  - Module 18: Designing & Developing Chatbots for Learning
  - Module 19: Data in Context: From Information to Insight OR Multi-Agent Systems for Collaboration & Decision Making
  - Module 20: Human-AI Partnering OR Ethical, Legal, Privacy and Social Implications of AI for Learning
- Learning Analytics Mini-Certificate
  - Module 17
  - Module 18
  - Module 19
  - Module 20

Whether your goals are to advance your career as an instructional designer, technology specialist, curriculum developer, corporate learning specialist, or to pursue a PhD, we are so excited about what this program has to offer to support your learning through innovative and engaging online modules, a capstone design project based on real world experience, and the opportunity to earn micro-certificates. This is a one of a kind degree.

Andrew Hostetler
Program Director, Innovative Design and Technology in Education

Who Should Apply

Education Professionals

Motivated professionals in educational contexts seeking professional learning and credentialing for career advancement in Instructional Design, Technology Specialist, Learning Analytics, and Curriculum Development role

Distance Learners

Driven students facing obstacles that prevent them from pursuing an in-person degree option, including international students or working professionals who cannot afford to stop working

Funding Your Education

A professional degree from Vanderbilt Peabody College of education and human development can take your career to the next level. Yet, we know that the cost of higher education might feel like a barrier.

Students may qualify for our Nashville Metropolitan Area K-12 Public School Scholarship or Teacher Pathway Scholarship depending on their current job and program of study.

Learn More

Innovative Design and Technology in Education Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the program? 

Our program is 30-credit hours with an opportunity to complete a micro-credential. This choice will dictate how long it takes to complete the program.
A part-time student can complete the program in five terms (for example, Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring). A full-time student can complete the program in four terms (for example, Fall (9), Spring (9), Summer (6), Fall (6).
Master's students are able to enroll in 6-12 credits each semester.
What background or experiences do I need to apply?

We are not a licensure program so there are no pre-requisites to apply. Our students come to us with experiences in learning environments that include: teaching, the military, corporate HR, non-profit, and more. IDeaTE is built for people with a goal to design learning environments that are responsive to people and context and enhanced by technologies and analytics.
What careers might this degree prepare me for? 

Some of our students are teachers and choose to stay in the classroom but most of our students go on to careers as corporate learning specialist, museum educators, technology specialists, and curriculum developers in non-profit, corporate, or school district environments. Some of our program graduates go on to pursue their Ph.D. upon graduating.
What kind of student thrives in this program?

We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and post-graduation goals. The students who thrive are curious, committed to their long-term goals, and eager to grow as educators, leaders, or researchers. We review each application with an open mind, looking for individuals who are ready to engage deeply and make an impact in the field of education.
What does a typical week look like? 

Each week will consist of both asynchronous and synchronous content. Students will be expected to attend 60–90-minute synchronous sessions each week or every other week depending on the module. Asynchronous content will consist of readings, videos, discussions, and interactive exercises.
Do students need to come to campus?

This program does not include a mandatory residential component. The department may organize optional campus activities during graduation.
How do I apply?

You can start your application now through our application portal. Our admissions page can give you more information about our community at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development and . When you apply for admittance to the program, you’ll automatically be considered for a merit-based scholarship to support your studies.

Affiliated Faculty Research

Alyssa Wise, Director of LIVE Learning Innovation Incubator

Wise’s research combines the tools of data science, the theory of learning sciences and the practices of human-centered design to build and study the use of learning analytics systems that promote equitable and effective education. From large introductory science courses to graduate level humanities seminars, her work applies techniques of machine learning, natural language processing, social network analysis and more to provide information that supports students and faculty in intentional teaching and learning.

Learn more about LIVE