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About the Institute

The Dutton Institute was officially founded in 2000 with the goal of helping instructors in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences develop cutting-edge, online educational resources. Today, we support all teaching and learning in the College, whether online, face-to-face, or something in between. Creating high-quality, flexible, and engaging teaching and learning environments that help students to be successful and enable instructors to excel is, as we say, a “team sport.”

Interested in seeing where we are headed? See our Strategic Plan for 2020-25 (PDF).

The Design of Learning

Our team brings a wealth of experience and a shared passion for students and student learning. Together we bring an array of unique and diverse strengths and perspectives to the science and art of learning as we collaborate with instructional faculty to craft the ideal learning experience – on campus, online, in the workplace, at home, and in other formal and informal settings.  

Our Administrative Team

Our administrative staff brings the care and skills to provide front-line office support to learners, which helps them navigate Penn State’s complex systems, while supporting our academic departments in the administration of their online offerings.

Our Learning Design Team

Our learning design team members have advanced backgrounds in the field of education and learning science, bringing a focus on learners to every collaboration – concentrating on who those learners are, what they know, how they think, and how to reach them effectively so they get the most out of their educational experience. 

Our Programming Team

Our programmers help to optimize the teaching and learning environment – constantly evaluating and implementing technology innovations and affordances that enhance the academic and administrative experience.

Our Multimedia Team

Our multimedia specialists know how to convey messages exquisitely and effectively in a wide range of media to support teaching and learning, research, marketing, and other needs related to the college’s work. 

Learn More about the Dutton Process

Our team works together to implement our design process and create exceptional learning experiences. Contact us, and together we'll make your ideas become reality!