Case Study: University of Wisconsin-Extension achieves rapid scaling of competency-based, self‑paced programs and student time/cost savings with D2L Brightspace

The UW Flexible Option gives learners the flexibility to earn a University of Wisconsin degree or certificate at their own pace

The University of Wisconsin-Extension launched the UW Flexible Option to offer self-paced, competency-based degrees and certificates for adult and nontraditional learners. The challenge was to build an LMS experience that measured mastery rather than seat time, secured faculty buy-in, streamlined communication among students, faculty, and Academic Success Coaches, and presented a clean, accessible interface.

Using Brightspace’s Competency-Based Education tools, UW‑Extension deployed intelligent agents, content widgets, custom styles, rubrics, release conditions, role-based permissions, groups, and SIS integration to automate alerts, deliver targeted content, and support objective assessments. The program enrolled 350 students by March 2015 (vs. a 150-student first-year goal), graduated early completers, achieved notable time and cost savings (one student earned 33 credits in three months, saving about $8,000), and won a Brightspace Excellence Award.

University of Wisconsin-Extension

Ryan Anderson

Director of Instructional Design and Development