INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

Design

What is Instructional Design?

Instructional design is a systematic way of creating learning opportunities. ID encourages the use of different systemic models to analyze, design, develop, implement, and assess the learning. Instructional design encompasses complex processes and takes into consideration different learning theories. Some consider it a science and others consider it an art. If I could offer my own input, I would say that both science and art are necessary to create effective and engaging learning experiences that align with the intended outcomes.

Instructional Design Models

You didn’t come this far to stop

ADDIE Model

Dick and Carey Model

low angle view photography of a gray buildinglow angle view photography of a gray building

ADDIE Model

The ADDIE model serves as a comprehensive framework for instructional design, focusing on enhancing educational experiences through its five essential phases: Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate. Although it may initially appear to follow a linear path, the reality is that the model functions more like a web, allowing for fluid transitions between phases as needed. This flexibility enables designers to revisit and refine each aspect of the instructional process, ensuring alignment with learning objectives. While the model requires a substantial investment of time to produce high-quality educational materials, this thorough approach ultimately leads to more effective outcomes compared to hastily developed products that may fall short of their goals. Emphasizing quality over speed, the ADDIE model remains a cornerstone in the field of instructional design.

Analyzing

Purpose:

  • Identify the learning needs, goals, and constraints.

Development

Purpose:

  • Plan the structure, content, and format of the instruction.

Design

Purpose:

  • Create and assemble the content and learning materials.

Implementation

Purpose:

  • Deliver the instructional content to the learners.

Evaluation

Deliverables:

  • Evaluation report.

  • Recommendations for improvement.

Reflection

Immersing oneself in a new methodology presents the best learning experience, and I had the privilege of applying this step-by-step ADDIE model to create a learning project alongside fantastic classmates. We began by identifying the needs of our learners, ensuring our project would be relevant and impactful. Next, we established measurable objectives that would guide our design process. As we moved into developing engaging activities, we incorporated technology and gamification elements to enhance the learning experience. After several iterations, we reached the implementation stage, where our design came to life in the classroom. Finally, we evaluated the effectiveness of our approach, reflecting on what worked well and what could be improved. This collaborative journey not only deepened my understanding of instructional design but also highlighted the power of teamwork in creating meaningful learning experiences.

Key Questions:

  • Who is the target audience (e.g., demographics, prior knowledge)?

  • What are the learning objectives?

  • What gaps exist in learners' current skills or knowledge?

  • What resources and constraints (time, budget, technology) must be considered?

Deliverables:

  • Learner profiles.

  • Defined learning objectives.

  • Needs assessment report.

Deliverables:

  • Course blueprint or storyboard.

  • Assessment plan.

Key Activities:

  • Develop a course outline or storyboard.

  • Determine the learning methods (e.g., eLearning, in-person, blended).

  • Choose assessment strategies (e.g., quizzes, practical tasks).

  • Select or create instructional materials (text, multimedia, etc.).

Deliverables:

  • Finalized instructional materials.

  • Interactive and multimedia resources.

Key Activities:

  • Write scripts, develop slides, create videos, or design eLearning modules.

  • Integrate multimedia elements (graphics, animations, audio).

  • Develop supporting materials like guides, handouts, or apps.

  • Pilot or test parts of the material to ensure usability and effectiveness.

Deliverables:

  • Training sessions or courses live and accessible to learners.

  • Support for facilitators and participants.

Key Activities:

  • Deploy training via a Learning Management System (LMS), classroom, or hybrid setting.

  • Train facilitators or instructors, if necessary.

  • Monitor the rollout to address any immediate issues.

Purpose:

  • Assess the effectiveness of the learning solution and identify areas for improvement.

Key Types of Evaluation:

  • Formative Evaluation: Conducted during development to refine materials.

  • Summative Evaluation: Conducted after implementation to measure outcomes.

Key Activities:

  • Collect feedback through surveys, assessments, or performance data.

  • Analyze results to measure whether learning objectives were met.

  • Adjust content or delivery based on findings.

The Dick and Carey Model

The Dick and Carey model is a comprehensive and systematic approach to instructional design, created by Walter Dick and Lou Carey. This model offers a clear, step-by-step framework that guides educators through the processes of designing, developing, implementing, and evaluating instructional materials. Unlike some models that view instruction as a standalone event, the Dick and Carey model emphasizes the interconnectedness of all components within the instructional system, highlighting how each element influences one another. The key components of this model include identifying instructional goals, which specify what learners should know or be able to accomplish at the end of the instruction, and conducting instructional analysis, which involves breaking down these goals into smaller, specific tasks or skills necessary for learning. This thorough approach ensures that educational programs are well-structured and effective in meeting learners' needs.

Key Components of the Model:

  1. Identify Instructional Goals

    • Determine what learners should know or be able to do at the end of the instruction.

  2. Conduct Instructional Analysis

    • Break down the instructional goals into smaller, specific tasks or skills that need to be learned.

  3. Analyze Learners and Context

    • Understand the characteristics of the learners (e.g., prior knowledge, motivation) and the context in which the instruction will occur.

  4. Write Performance Objectives

    • Create clear, measurable objectives that describe the desired outcomes of the instruction.

  5. Develop Assessment Instruments

    • Design tools to measure whether learners have achieved the objectives (e.g., tests, quizzes, performance evaluations).

  6. Develop Instructional Strategy

    • Plan the sequence and methods of instruction, including the use of media, activities, and delivery methods.

  7. Develop and Select Instructional Materials

    • Create or choose resources such as lesson plans, multimedia, or printed materials that align with the strategy.

  8. Design and Conduct Formative Evaluation

    • Test the instructional materials and methods with a small group to gather feedback and make improvements.

  9. Revise Instruction

    • Use feedback from the formative evaluation to refine and improve the instruction.

  10. Design and Conduct Summative Evaluation

    • Conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the effectiveness of the instruction after implementation.

Reflection

The Dick and Carey model represents a non-linear approach to instructional design that emphasizes the learner's journey toward achieving specific educational objectives. This model dissects overarching instructional goals into smaller, manageable tasks, ensuring that each component is addressed in detail. It integrates various types of assessments throughout the learning process, facilitating continuous iteration and refinement aimed at producing a high-quality educational experience. However, this thoroughness comes at a cost, as the model demands a significant investment of time in development. Educators often face a recurring dilemma: should they prioritize a slow, meticulous approach that yields effective results, or adopt a quicker strategy that may sacrifice quality and learning outcomes? Ultimately, the Dick and Carey model underscores the importance of thoughtful design in fostering meaningful learning experiences.

Why Instructional Design?

As a dedicated teacher, I was presented with a myriad of options when selecting a master's program in education. Yet, my focus was clear: I sought to explore the systematic approach to designing instruction. This curiosity drove me to delve into the methodologies utilized by professionals in crafting effective teaching and training frameworks. I yearned to understand the intricate processes behind instructional design, recognizing their significance in fostering meaningful learning experiences. By immersing myself in this specialized field, I aimed to enhance my ability to create engaging and impactful educational solutions that cater to diverse learner needs, ultimately elevating the teaching profession and enriching the educational landscape.

★★★★★

“Where My Reason, Imagination Or Interest Were Not Engaged, I Would Not Or I Could Not Learn”

-Winston Churchill

References:

Dick, W., Carey, L. (2000). The Systematic Design of Instruction. Glenview, IL: Scott, Foresman, and Company.

Piskurich, G. M. (2015). Rapid instructional design: learning ID fast and right. Wiley

Image Source:

https://www.facebook.com/instructionaldesigntees

https://hungryminds.com.au/resources/

https://bingobaker.com/view/3363774

Icon Source:

https://thenounproject.com/