When NASA set out to democratize open science practices across the global research community, they needed more than just great content—they needed a learning platform that could deliver a structured curriculum at scale while maintaining quality and engagement.
The Challenge
NASA’s ambitious goal was clear: empower 20,000 scientists with open science skills through a comprehensive online curriculum. But the requirements were complex:
- Strict sequential progression through modules
- Support for both full and fast-track learning paths
- Robust analytics to track learner progress
- Digital credentials to recognize achievement
- Launch timeline of just 3 months
The Solution: The Open edX Platform at the Core
NASA partnered with Raccoon Gang to build Open Science 101 on a branded Open edX platform. The solution combined:
- Five interactive modules (25 lessons total) built in Articulate Rise 360 and integrated via SCORM
- Guided progression with sequential unlocking to ensure learners master concepts before advancing
- RG Analytics integration for real-time tracking and data-driven insights
- Credly digital badges tied to assessment outcomes for shareable credentials
- Rich interactivity including quizzes, drag-and-drop activities, and multimedia content
The Impact
The result? A scalable, measurable online learning experience that:
- Equips researchers with critical open science skills
- Fosters transparency and collaboration across the scientific community
- Provides NASA with actionable data to continuously improve the program
- Offers learners recognized credentials that validate their expertise
As Olha Turutova, Head of Instructional Design at Raccoon Gang, notes: “We launched on schedule and can scale without a rebuild”—a testament to the power of choosing the right platform and partners.
Key Takeaway
By combining Rise 360 content authoring with Open edX platform’s robust delivery infrastructure, NASA created a learning program that’s not just informative—it’s transformative and ready to scale.
Want to dive deeper? Read the full case study to learn about the technical challenges, solutions, and lessons learned from this groundbreaking project below.
