Instructional Design

The concept of Instructional Design. Models, theories, trends, pitfalls, and anything you need to know, written from our Instructional Design experts.

March 16, 2014 | Sponsored

Beating the Forgetting Curve with Distributed Practice

After our inspiring and thought-provoking interview with Connie Malamed, we were left wondering about the interesting human nature that is revealed with the ‘forgetting curve’, and its impact on learning design. We set out on a journey to explore and learn more about this phenomenon. Read on...
by Ravi Pratap Singh
March 7, 2014

The One Skill You Need to Excel in Instructional Design

Instructional design is a multi-faceted discipline, and – let’s face it – a lot is asked of instructional designers (IDs). We need to have adult learning theory and learning models at our fingertips, be data detectives, sharp interviewers, and writers who can weave a story, not to mention detail-oriented, process-oriented, organized pros. Yet the one essential skill for IDs in corporate training and Learning and Development (L&D) is rarely taught in schools.  
by Kerri Simmons
March 5, 2014

Don’t Pick Sides, Create an ADDIE-Agile Mashup

Over the vast countryside in the kingdom of Instructional Design a mist of uncertainty has fallen over many of the loyal subjects residing there. Conversations can be overheard discussing whether Queen ADDIE should stay on the throne or if an Agile usurper like SAM would be a more effective monarch. With all of this uncertainty several are even considering the viability of a Constitutional Monarchy creating a model government where both ADDIE and Agile can play important and functional roles.
by Travis Thurston
March 4, 2014

21st Century Classrooms with 20th Century Learning Theories

The 20th century brought forth several changes in the field of education. These changes include teaching methods and pedagogies, teaching and learning theories, and new perspectives on where America’s education is heading. In the 21st century, classrooms called online classrooms or virtual classrooms are emerging in vast numbers, all accessible 24/7, across towns and cities and certainly across the nations. Still, how much can 21st century classrooms benefit from 20th century theories?
by Dorothy Kropf
February 27, 2014

Demystifying Competency Models - Just A.S.K.

Competency models apply to those developing eLearning too. Everyone involved in adult education should know what they are and how they’re best used. This article makes competency models easy to remember (just A.S.K.) and provides the top 20 failures programs exhibit when the fail to live up to their potential usefulness.
by Tracey M. Flynn
February 5, 2014

Cognitive Load Theory And Instructional Design

Understanding the basics of the Cognitive Load Theory and applying them to your instructional design is an absolute must, particularly if you want your learners to get the most out of the eLearning course you are creating. This guide will offer you a detailed look at Cognitive Load Theory, including how it can be applied in learning settings. Check the Cognitive Load Theory and Instructional Design article and presentation to find more.
by Christopher Pappas