“Mind Blowing”: Identifying Key Moments in Higher Education Teaching through a Learning Experience Design Framework

The characteristics of “good” higher education teaching, especially in digital environments, are increasingly discussed through the lens of sustainable learning. This study investigates key moments that students identify as central to their higher education learning experiences and categorizes them into pedagogical, technical, and social dimensions using the Learning Experience Design (LXD) Framework. Utilizing problem-centered interviews analyzed both deductively and inductively, the findings highlight that the social dimension—including fostering a trusting, low-hierarchy learning environment and engaging in dialectical discussions—is crucial for sustainable learning experiences. In addition, students reported enhanced motivation based on perceived flexibility in choosing learning materials and assessment methods. These results emphasize the pivotal role of social interactions and the learning atmosphere in digital higher education, offering practical insights for promoting deep and lasting learning in higher education didactics.