3 DAYS FDP ON LEARNING EXPERIENCE DESIGN FOR GEN Z CLASSROOMS , KPR Institute Engineering and Technology, Autonomous Engineering Institution, Coimbatore, India

Event Overview: From August 24 to August 26, 2023, Team CARE organized a transformative 3-day Faculty Development Program (FDP) focused on 'Learning Experience Design (LXD) for Gen Z Classrooms.' This immersive event was held at the state-of-the-art CARE LXD Studio, a creative space dedicated to crafting innovative teaching methodologies. The program concluded on August 26 with a resounding success, leaving participants enriched with insights and inspiration.

Participants and Diversity: The FDP garnered an enthusiastic response, with the active participation of 29 educators who represented a diverse spectrum of academia. The participants hailed from various educational backgrounds, including engineering, arts and sciences, aspiring educators, and freelance trainers. This diversity led to vibrant discussions and cross-pollination of ideas throughout the event.

• Engineering Colleges: 7 participants

• Arts and Science Institutions: 7 participants

• Aspiring Educators: 10 participants

• Freelance Trainers: 5 participants

Key Objectives: The FDP aimed to empower educators with the expertise to create pedagogically sound learning experiences for Gen Z classrooms. It sought to bridge the gap between traditional teaching methods and the evolving needs of the digital-native generation. By incorporating principles of technology, empathy, and cognitive psychology, participants were guided to design transformative learning journeys.

Program Highlights: The 3-day journey was marked by insightful discussions, interactive workshops, and collaborative activities. Participants delved into advanced concepts like Kolb's Experiential Cycle, Bloom's Taxonomy, Flipped Classroom, and Self-Organized Learning Environment. They discovered how to tailor teaching methods to the unique requirements of Gen Z learners, fostering engagement and empathy in the learning process.

Outcomes: The Faculty Development Program yielded remarkable outcomes, equipping participants with the tools and insights to revolutionize their teaching methodologies:

1. LXD Principles Mastery: Educators gained a solid understanding of Learning Experience Design principles, cultivating a learner-centric approach to curriculum development.

2. Innovative Frameworks Application: Participants successfully integrated advanced concepts such as experiential learning frameworks, flipped classrooms, and technology integration into their teaching strategies.

3. Learner Needs Identification: Educators honed skills to identify and cater to learner needs through needs analyses, ensuring meaningful and impactful learning experiences.

4. Engaging Learning Activities: The FDP empowered educators to design engaging learning activities aligned with learning objectives, enhancing student participation and comprehension.

5. Empathy-Fueled Teaching: Participants learned to create safe spaces and foster empathy, nurturing a sense of belonging and emotional well-being among students.

6. Future-Ready Teaching: The exploration of emerging trends like neuroscience, AI, and the post-COVID landscape empowered educators to adapt their strategies for future challenges.

Participant Feedback: The FDP concluded with resounding positive feedback from participants. Many expressed newfound enthusiasm and confidence in crafting engaging learning experiences. The diverse backgrounds of participants fostered networking opportunities, enabling the exchange of ideas and experiences.