Instructional Design Theories

January 4, 2016

5 Tips For Using Connectivism In eLearning

Siemens’ Connectivism Learning Theory suggests that online peer networks, such as social media sites and online forums, play a vital role in eLearning experiences. They allow learners to learn from social interaction and collaboration, and by benefiting from the personal experience and diverse opinions of their peers. In this article, I’ll offer 5 tips on how to use connectivism in your next eLearning course.

by Christopher Pappas

November 24, 2015

9 Steps To Apply The Dick And Carey Model In eLearning

Dick and Carey first introduced their Systems Approach Model back in 1978, when they published The Systematic Design of Instruction. Since then, it has been one of the most popular Instructional Design models, thanks to the fact that it views learning as a comprehensive system, rather than a variety of individual components. In this article, I’ll explore the basics of the Dick and Carey Model, as well as how you can use it in your eLearning experiences.

by Christopher Pappas

November 18, 2015

How To Apply Gagné's 9 Events Of Instruction In eLearning

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a step-by-step guide that could help you provide a complete and comprehensive online experience for every member of your audience? In this article, I’ll show you how to apply the 9 Events of Instruction introduced by Gagné, in order to create effective and comprehensive eLearning experiences.

by Christopher Pappas

September 30, 2015

Getting To Know ADDIE: Part 5 - Evaluation

Wow, we’ve come a long way! Now, we are at the end of our journey, and all that is left to us is to examine the final stage of the ADDIE framework - Evaluation.

by Michael Treser

September 19, 2015

The Impact Of Situated Cognition In eLearning

Gathering knowledge is one thing, but being able to apply it in the real world is another. The primary objective of any eLearning course is to give learners the skills and information they need to achieve personal and professional goals. This is why situated cognition is a perfect fit in eLearning strategies. In this article, I will discuss the impact situated cognition has upon online education.

by Christopher Pappas

September 11, 2015

Getting To Know ADDIE: Part 4 - Implementation

The fourth stage of the ADDIE model is Implementation. The beginning of implementation marks the first time the target audience interacts with your course in earnest, the moment of truth, in which the knowledge contained in the course’s materials is absorbed by the learners.

by Michael Treser

September 3, 2015

Getting To Know ADDIE: Part 3 - Development

The development’s stage involves having the format and the plan of the course approved by the higher-ups/clients and getting the Instructional Designers engaged with it. The Instructional Designers will be using content authoring tools to bring the concepts and ideas laid out in the course plan to life. This is where the storyboards, sketches, and detailed descriptions of various course elements you created during the Design stage will come in handy.

by Michael Treser

August 24, 2015

Getting To Know ADDIE: Part 2 - Design

In the previous installment we took our first look at the ADDIE model. We learned its general characteristics, considered its advantages and disadvantages, and also discussed at length the first stage of the ADDIE methodology - Analysis. In this installment we will tell you about Design, the second stage of the ADDIE methodology. All the requisite data is gathered during the analysis stage. Once we have learned what the course’s target audience is, set the goals we aim to achieve, and determined the best way to deliver the information, it is time to set about laying out the structure of the course. This is precisely what happens during the second stage.

by Michael Treser

August 16, 2015

Getting To Know ADDIE: Part 1 - Analysis

Although there are many different models and methodologies for the creation of training materials in the eLearning world, the ADDIE model is, undoubtedly, the most popular of all. If you are a veteran, you certainly know what ADDIE is and how to create in line with that model, and I doubt I will be able to tell you anything you do not already know. However, if you are new to the industry, or simply have not heard the name before, this article will get you up to speed, introducing you to the methodology and showing you how it can help you.

by Michael Treser

July 1, 2015

Instructional Design Models And Theories: Anchored Instruction

The Anchored Instruction Educational Model was introduced in 1990 by The Cognition and Technology Group at Vanderbilt University, with John Bransford overseeing the research and considered to be the “founder” of Anchored Instruction. Since its inception, The Cognition and Technology Group has designed a wide range of multimedia programs that are based upon the Anchored Instruction Educational Model. In this article, I’ll briefly explain 3 basic principles of the Anchored Instruction and I’ll give you some ideas about its practical application in eLearning course design.

by Christopher Pappas

June 26, 2015

5 Instructional Design Tips To Enhance Metacognition In eLearning

An empowered learner is a successful learner. Not only do they have the confidence they need to solve problems autonomously, but they are active participants who are motivated and inspired to learn. One of the most effective ways to empower your online learners is to incorporate metacognition into your eLearning strategy. In this article, I’ll share 5 tips on how to enhance metacognition in eLearning.

by Christopher Pappas

June 7, 2015

Instructional Design Models And Theories: The Situated Cognition Theory And The Cognitive Apprenticeship Model

The Situated Cognition Theory, outlined by Brown, Collins, and Duguid in 1989, is centered around the idea that knowing is “inseparable” from actually doing and highlights the importance of learning within context. In the same year, Brown, Collins, and Newman also developed the Cognitive Apprenticeship Model, in which they identified several teaching methods for learning within context. In this article, I’ll briefly explain the basic principles of both the Situated Cognition Theory and the Cognitive Apprenticeship Model and I’ll give you some tips concerning the practical application of each in eLearning course design.

by Christopher Pappas