Foundation

My Definition of Instructional Design and Technology

Instructional Design and Technology is a field of study that has allowed me to design instruction using a systematic methodology. It has helped me analyze data, learner's needs, objectives, learning theories, and a continuous iterative process that leads to a high-quality learning product.

Learning Theories & Key Figures

Behaviorism

It is a learning theory that states that humans learn new behaviors when conditioned. It requires a reward and consequence system. It is widely used in education: rewards in the classroom, behavioral objectives, drill and practice, positive and negative reinforcement, and behavior modifications. Behaviorism is very useful when teaching foundational skills but it has its limitations. It does not promote intrinsic motivation or complex cognitive processes like problem-solving.

Key Figures:

• John B. Watson: Father of Behaviorism. He is famous for proving classical human conditioning with his experiment "Little Albert."

• B.F. Skinner: Further developed the idea of behaviorism through the use of reinforcement and punishment - operant conditioning. Known for his work with his "Skinner Box."

Cognitivism

This learning theory focuses on how the human mind acquires, processes, and retains knowledge. This theory is used in education when teachers use students' prior knowledge to build upon that existing schema, active engagement, scaffolding, some technology integrations (mind-mapping software), metacognitive strategies (self-evaluations), and the use of multimedia. Behaviorism could be considered the opposite of cognitivism because it focuses on observable behaviors and cognitivism focuses on internal processes. This theory is a cornerstone of instructional design.

Key Figures:

• Jean Piaget: Stages of cognitive development, learning is tailored according to the learners' developmental stage.

• Robert Gagne: Conditions of learning and instructional events, gaining attention and providing feedback.

Constructivism

This learning theory describes how humans construct knowledge through experiences and interactions with the world. Instead of being passive receivers of information, they create their understanding by building on prior knowledge. Constructivism is used in education by creating a student-centered learning approach, collaborative learning, scaffolding and differentiation, real-world relevance, and encouraging inquiry and reflection. This learning theory fosters lifelong learners.

Key Figures:

• Jean Piaget (Cognitive Constructivism): emphasizes how individuals construct knowledge based on their developmental stage.

• Lev Vygotsky (Social Constructivism): emphasizes the role of social and cultural interaction with learning. He uses the Zone of Proximal Development as a guidance to design learning.

Connectivism

A modern learning theory developed in response to the wide access to the internet and technological devices. It emphasizes the role of social and technological networks in the learning process. This learning theory states that the use of these directly impacts how humans acquire and share knowledge. Connectivism is widely used in education because it promotes collaboration: Learning platforms such as Coursera and Khan Academy, Social learning such as LinkedIn, Project-based Learning using platforms such as Google Workplace, Massive Open Online Courses, and Personal Learning Networks.

Key Figures:

• George Siemens: Introduced this theory in 2004 in his article Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age.

• Stephen Downes: His work highlights how learning happens in distributive networks and promotes the idea of Personal Learning Environments.

My Educational Philosophy

My students are always my top priority. I believe that meaningful learning begins with strong relationships, so I take the time to truly get to know my students—their interests, dislikes, learning preferences, and unique needs. By listening closely and observing carefully, I can personalize instruction in ways that matter. This means creating clear, measurable learning objectives, and sharing those goals openly with students so they know what they’re working toward and why.

I believe in providing a safe and supportive environment where students feel accepted and appreciated. In my classroom, learners are encouraged to explore, take risks, make mistakes, reflect, and grow. I use a variety of strategies and modes—visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and digital tools—to ensure that every student has access to learning in ways that resonate with them. Accessibility and inclusion are at the core of my approach.

Respect is foundational. I model respect, compassion, and community-building so students learn to extend the same to their peers. We celebrate successes and support each other through challenges, fostering an environment that blends friendly competition with encouragement. I also integrate regular opportunities for self-evaluation, so students can reflect on their progress, take ownership of their learning, and develop a strong growth mindset.

When students know they are seen, heard, and valued, their confidence grows—and with it, their ability to learn, connect, and thrive.

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Instructional Design and Technology Glossary

Instructional Design and Technology

Instructional design and technology is a field of study and practice that identifies learning and performance challenges; it encourages designers to utilize methods such as analyzing data, designing and developing content, and implementing and assessing the effectiveness of the course; and is applied in settings such as educational institutions and workplaces.

Instructional Design

Instructional design is a specific set of rules or procedures for creating effective learning. It is a research-proven model that you can use to create content that is accessible to learners in different settings.

AECT

Is an acronym that stands for Association for Educational Communications and Technology. They state that they are the lead for studying and the application of new technologies for learning.

B.F. Skinner

Is the leading theorist behind Behaviorism. Was a professor at Harvard and created several experiments on animals. He even created what is called the “Skinner Box”.

eLearning

Is learning, training, or education that is done through a computer or any digital device. It can be done either in a traditional classroom setting or online.

Online Learning

Distance education instructs students who are away from the professor typically through the internet, but also other mediums. (Source)

Bloom’s Taxonomy

An instructional theory with six layers of knowledge that grow in complexity: remember, understand, apply, analyze, evaluate, and create. (Source)

Learning Theory

Learning theory aims to explain how people process, keep, and recall knowledge. Four accepted theories are behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and connectivism. (Source)

Instructional Design Models

Models are representations of real situations that simplify tasks that can be difficult to illustrate otherwise. Most instructional design models utilize the most common steps of design, development, implementation, and evaluation, aimed at solving learning problems.

ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation)

An instructional design model from analyzing objectives, designing and developing content, and then implementing and evaluating the course. (Source)

Synchronous instruction

Synchronous instruction is when students are required to log in at specific times each week and have regular and substantive interaction between students and their instruction. (Source)

Asynchronous learning

Asynchronous learning is when students can view the materials at any time during the week, but also have opportunities for substantive and regular interaction with the professor and student. (Source)

Reflection

Instructional Design and Technology has come a long way—from a basic, teacher-led model to a much more flexible, student-centered approach. Today, it’s all about understanding learners’ needs and creating personalized, engaging experiences using technology. As the field continues to grow, I’m genuinely excited about the new ideas and innovations that lie ahead.

Looking back on my journey, I’ve seen how learning theories have shaped the way I design instruction. Each theory plays a role: behaviorism helps with managing behaviors and reinforcing learning, cognitivism supports strategies like scaffolding and mind mapping, and constructivism—especially social constructivism and connectivism truly aligns with how I teach. It’s helped me shift from simply delivering content to guiding students in a more collaborative, tech-integrated environment.

One of the most meaningful experiences for me was working with classmates to build our own instructional design glossary. We took time to research, discuss, and define terms together in a way that made sense to us. It wasn’t just about memorizing vocabulary—it was about really understanding it. And it’s not finished! I plan to keep adding to it as I grow in this field. It’s become both a valuable reference and a reflection of my progress.

“Through others, we become ourselves.”

Lev Vygotsky

★★★★★

Reference:

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

Reiser, R. A., Carr-Chellman, A. A., & Dempsey, J. V. (2024). Trends and Issues in Instructional Design and Technology. Taylor & Francis