Offering Colleges (1)
The Master of Educational Science in Digital Pedagogy (MES DP), a program specifically designed to enhance the professional capabilities of educators in higher education for the digital age. This Master of Education equivalent program aims to deepen participants' understanding of digital education while enriching their professional profiles.
The MES DP program caters to both full-time and part-time educators at affiliated campuses within study institutes and faculties. Delivered in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Mode, it combines distance and blended learning, offering the flexibility to study from home alongside on-campus classes.
Addressing the shortage of trained educators capable of effectively delivering dual modes of education, the MES DP program seeks to redefine teacher education. It focuses on digitization, virtual learning, online resources, and essential 21st-century skills. Given the recent emphasis on technology and digitalization in Nepalese education, this program is designed to meet the nation's need for expert educators proficient in integrating emerging technologies and modern pedagogical skills into their professional work.
The MES DP is an advanced study program supporting the professional development of teachers who already hold a Master’s degree in any discipline and have experience in teaching and training. This flexible, blended program spans three semesters (18 months) for full-time students but can be extended up to six years for part-time students. It aims to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to apply digital pedagogy methods and strategies effectively in the classroom.
The program development involved a detailed baseline survey to identify gaps in existing teacher education programs, focusing on teachers' awareness and use of digital pedagogy and 21st-century skills. Consultations with multi-sector stakeholders, educational experts from Nepal and Finland, and officials from the Ministry of Education in Nepal further refined the program.
Following a competency-based teacher education model, the MES DP program emphasizes readiness for change, recognizing future competencies, and identifying gaps in current educational delivery through research. The curriculum includes courses on theories of education, curriculum and instruction, assessment and evaluation, learning management systems, emerging ICT innovations in education, guidance and counseling, and research practices using digital tools.
Objectives of the Program
- Introduce pedagogical skills that integrate ICT and 21st-century competencies into generic pedagogical and content knowledge, preparing competent teachers in Nepal.
- Enhance university teacher educators' and facilitators' digital pedagogical and digitization competencies to effectively run the program within the university system. Collaborate with provincial and local government education units to prepare pedagogically qualified teachers across the country.
- Support the institutionalization of flexible education programs within university systems, utilizing both conventional and online modes of delivery.
Salient Features
Core Values
The program will incorporate core values as cross-cutting themes throughout its design and implementation. Firstly, digital literacy and 21st-century skills will be fundamental elements integrated into all courses, requiring participants to use digital tools and practice these skills consistently. Secondly, the program will promote inclusivity by ensuring the participation of teachers from diverse backgrounds, including different genders, ethnicities, geographical areas, and remote locations. Thirdly, the program will be grounded in experiential learning and ethical principles. In summary, the core values of the program include:
- Digital literacy and 21st-century skills
- Inclusion and equity
- Experiential learning and ethics
Admission Criteria
In order to be considered for admission to the program, interested students must fill out an online application and pass an entrance exam. The institution's website contains the application form, and the entrance exam will also be taken there. Students will be admitted to the program based on how well they perform on the entrance exam.
Curricular Structure
Competency Areas
Graduates of the Master in Digital Pedagogy program will possess competencies in the following areas
- Digital Pedagogy and Didactics: Graduates will have a thorough understanding of learning principles, including both theoretical and practical aspects based on research. They will be able to apply relevant pedagogical theories, and plan, implement, and assess teaching and learning using digital tools.
- 21st Century Skills: Graduates will employ critical thinking skills to understand the world more deeply, viewing realities from multiple perspectives and drawing conclusions based on analytical and evaluative skills.
- Communication and Interaction: Graduates will be adept at communicating effectively with students about all aspects of learning, motivating and inspiring them. They will encourage active participation and foster an environment of mutual learning and sharing.
- Professional Development: Graduates will take initiative in their continuous professional development (CPD), exploring and expanding their professional networks. They will be motivated to share their practices and learn from peers in their disciplines.
- Guidance, Learning Support, and Assessment: Graduates will possess the knowledge and skills to understand their learners, identify their strengths and areas for development, and provide guidance, counseling, and support to enhance the learning experience.