MDS launches free on-demand short courses to help Kiwis upskill and become more work-ready

New Zealanders, including those who have been laid off or stood down as a result of COVID-19, can upskill, refine their industry knowledge and become more work-ready by undertaking up to 12 free On-Demand Short Courses being provided by Media Design School in partnership with Torrens University Australia.

These self-guided courses are available online for a limited time and, unlike other short courses that require a significant time commitment, take just one to two hours to complete.

The On-Demand Short Courses cover topics from project planning and leadership to content marketing and design thinking. Importantly, many of the On-Demand Short Courses are relevant to areas of national workforce need, such as IT (big data, cloud security, user stories).

Since the start of April, over 17,000 of the same On-Demand Short Courses offered by Torrens University in Australia have been completed. The five most popular to date have covered leadership, social media marketing, design thinking, emotional intelligence and agile project management methodologies.

Says Ruth Cooper, country director, Media Design School: “This strong uptake in such a short period demonstrates just how important these On-Demand Short Courses are, as many people seek to find solutions in the face of uncertainty and a changing world. As a B Corporation, with a steadfast commitment to operating with purpose, we’re proud to offer this free learning opportunity to the public.”

Developed by academics and featuring experienced industry professionals, including representatives from IBM, Accenture, InterContinental Hotels Group, and more, the On-Demand Short Courses comprise written content, videos and quizzes.

They’re offered 100% online and are mobile friendly, allowing participants the flexibility to study anywhere, at any time.

Says Cooper: “We strongly believe in lifelong education because it can have such significant outcomes. At a time when many people are feeling disempowered, the simple act of learning can be powerful, because it can open up possibilities. It doesn’t just broaden the scope of aspiration, it builds the knowledge base that allows people to embark on or continue their journey.”

Media Design School and Torrens University’s vice-chancellor, professor Alwyn Louw, says the On-Demand Short Courses don’t just cover the fundamentals: “The On-Demand Short Courses deal with key concept areas in sufficient detail to build the capacity and competencies of people, so that they have a sufficient knowledge base as well as content base to prepare people for specific situations or specific opportunities.

“It is a just-in-time opportunity for people to improve their competencies and readiness for better employment options.”

There are no entry requirements and no limit to how many of the 12 free On-Demand Short Courses an individual can undertake. All participants will receive a certificate of completion.

The 12 free On-Demand Short Courses are:

• Design Thinking
• User Experience Design
• Develop your Critical Thinking Skills
• Coaching using the GROW Model
• User Stories
• Cloud Security
• Content Marketing Dynamics
• Project Planning Tools
• Building Your Leadership Brand
• How big data is changing content marketing
• Introduction to B Corps
• Crisis Management Bundle

Media Design School is also offering the free courses to its own staff, students, alumni and industry partner employees.

For a description of the free courses on offer visit: https://mds.torrensonline.com.