Carnegie Mellon University

Overview

The master's program in Educational Technology and Applied Learning Science at Carnegie Mellon University is designed to merge learning science with human-computer interaction and data-driven design. This integration equips students with the skills necessary to create impactful educational experiences. Throughout the program, you will learn to assess learning outcomes using evidence-based methods and contemporary learning technologies.

What you'll study

This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines essential principles of learning science with coursework in computing and analytics. Students complete core courses and select electives tailored to their interests in areas such as learning technology, interaction design, and learning analytics.

Core curriculum (example course areas)

• Learning and instruction: Exploring educational goals, instruction techniques, and assessment methods.
• Design and evaluation: Focus on evidence-based educational design and user-centered research and evaluation.
• Learning technology tools: Utilizing tools designed for online learning and learning experience design.
• Interaction and learning UX: Fundamentals of interaction design and participation in relevant design studios.
• Personalisation and intelligent learning: Concepts of personalized online learning and adaptive/AI-enabled learning.
• Learning analytics and data: Foundations of learning analytics and understanding big data pipelines.
• Machine learning and applied computation: Coursework focused on applied machine learning techniques.
• Learning-focused systems: Design and engineering of intelligent information systems.
• Collaboration and learning: Investigating computer-supported collaborative learning environments.
• Discourse and communication analysis: Exploring computational models for discourse analysis.
• Mobile and service innovation: Examining mobile service innovation within educational contexts.
• Technology in learning: Assessing the role of technology in modern education.

Applied work

Students engage in a significant applied project, such as a studio or capstone team project, that synthesizes learning design, evaluation, and technology implementation. Project specifics may differ across cohorts, providing a dynamic learning experience.

Electives

The elective courses enable students to enhance their expertise in specialized areas, including educational games, online learning design, learning analytics, and human-computer interaction focused on learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to submit a Statement of Purpose, resume, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, the GRE General Test is typically required for admission consideration.

Career prospects

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in educational technology, instructional design, and learning analytics. They can pursue roles in educational institutions, corporate training environments, and technology companies, making significant contributions to the advancement of learning experiences through innovative technologies.