Instructional design is like being an architect for learning: survey the site and talk to your client, create detailed blueprints with proven principles, and construct using the best material and methods available.
Instructional design systematically develops learning experiences by identifying key skills to be achieved, designing effective delivery relying on research-based theories, and optimizing resources, using a cyclical, iterative process for continuous refinement.
The roles of an Instructional designer can greatly vary from tech support to project management to researcher. They can be additionally tasked with content creation, copyright compliance, faculty development, student support, and, of course, curriculum development. Thus, they need to develop numerous skills and competencies. Such as:
Knowledge of Instructional design models and learning theory
Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Comfortable with multimedia/technology
Project management skills
Passion for learning
These competencies are applied differently across educational and corporate settings. Versatility in both settings underscores the importance of being adaptable and resourceful in the ID profession.
Piskurich, G. (2015). Rapid instructional design: Learning ID fast and right (3rd ed.). JohnWiley & Sons, Inc. ISBN: 978-1118973974
Reiser, R. A., & Dempsey, J. V. (Eds.). (2012). Trends and issues in instructional design and technology. Boston: Pearson.
Wang, S. (2019, July 27). 5 Essential Things That You Need As An Instructional Designer. e-learning industry. https://elearningindustry.com/instructional-design-skills-things-need
Experiential Learning in Instructional Design and Technology, Chapter 1 Essential Skills for the Instructional Designer
Instructional design models are like GPS systems for learning: they help you navigate from where learners are to where you want them to be through the most efficient and effective route possible.
Instructional design models are frameworks that transform complex information into clear, engaging educational content by systematically analyzing learner needs and designing targeted materials. From corporate training to academic courses, these models ensure learning is not just informative, but truly impactful, bridging the gap between knowledge transmission and genuine understanding.
The ADDIE model is a systematic instructional design approach consisting of five interconnected stages: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. This cyclical framework guides educators and trainers in creating structured, effective learning experiences by methodically addressing learner needs, developing targeted content, and continuously refining instructional strategies.
Designers meticulously examine the learning landscape to understand the current performance gaps and learner needs. They gather comprehensive data about the target audience, existing resources, and specific learning objectives that will guide the entire instructional design process.
During this stage, instructional designers develop a detailed blueprint for learning, carefully crafting strategies, activities, and assessment methods that align precisely with the established objectives. They create a comprehensive plan that serves as the architectural framework for the entire instructional experience.
This phase transforms the design blueprint into tangible learning materials, where designers create and assemble multimedia content, instructional scripts, learning resources, and assessment tools. They iteratively develop and refine materials to ensure they meet the originally defined learning objectives and engage the target audience effectively.
Designers execute the learning program by preparing learning environments, training instructors, distributing materials, and managing the actual delivery of instructional content. This stage focuses on smooth execution and providing necessary support to ensure learners can effectively access and engage with the designed instruction.
The final stage involves a comprehensive assessment of the entire instructional process, measuring learning outcomes against initial objectives and collecting detailed feedback from participants. Designers analyze the effectiveness of the instruction, document insights, and identify potential improvements for future iterations of the learning experience.
References
Piskurich, G. M. (2015). Rapid instructional design: Learning ID fast and right. John Wiley & Sons.
The Dick and Carey Model is a comprehensive framework that transforms learning design into a strategic, nine-step process. This approach ensures that educational experiences are meticulously crafted to meet specific learning objectives with precision and effectiveness.
Designers meticulously identify instructional goals by examining performance gaps and learner characteristics. They establish clear, measurable outcomes that will guide the entire instructional design process.
This stage involves breaking down complex performance skills into manageable components and identifying prerequisite knowledge and skills. Designers map out the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning requirements to create a comprehensive understanding of the instructional challenge.
Designers conduct an in-depth investigation of the target learner population, exploring their existing knowledge, skills, attitudes, and learning environment. This analysis provides crucial insights into potential barriers and opportunities for effective learning.
Instructional goals are transformed into specific, measurable performance objectives that clearly define the expected learning outcomes. Designers create precise behavioral statements that articulate the conditions and criteria for successful performance.
Designers develop comprehensive assessment instruments aligned with performance objectives, creating criterion-referenced test items and evaluation methods. These tools are carefully crafted to measure learner performance across cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains.
Appropriate instructional strategies are chosen to support performance objectives, with designers carefully selecting learning activities, media, and methods. The focus is on creating engaging and effective learning experiences that facilitate skill acquisition.
Detailed instructional materials are produced, including multimedia resources, instructor guides, and learner materials. These resources are meticulously designed to align with the established instructional strategies and learning objectives.
Designers conduct comprehensive evaluations, including expert reviews, small group trials, and field testing to gather critical feedback. This stage focuses on identifying and addressing potential gaps or weaknesses in the instructional design.
A comprehensive program evaluation is implemented to measure overall instructional effectiveness and learner performance. Designers compare results against initial performance objectives and document insights for future improvements.
Using evaluation results, designers revise instructional materials, refine strategies, and update content to ensure continuous improvement. This final stage emphasizes the iterative nature of the instructional design process, preparing for future implementations.
References
Dick, W., Carey, L. & Carey, J. (2015). Systematic Design of Instruction, (9th ed.) UpperSaddle River, NJ: Pearson.
Designed for projects with evolving requirements and/or need for rapid development, the Successive Approximation Model provides a quick, iterative framework for developing instructional materials. The model consists of three interconnected phases:
Designers initiate the project by comprehensively scoping the learning initiative and aligning stakeholder expectations. They define preliminary goals, identify key participants, and establish a foundational framework for the instructional design process.
This stage emphasizes rapid prototyping and continuous collaborative refinement, where designers quickly develop and test design concepts through agile methodologies. The focus is on creating flexible, evolving learning solutions that can be rapidly adjusted based on ongoing stakeholder feedback and emerging project insights.
Designers finalize and deploy learning materials, conducting pilot testing and gathering real-world implementation feedback. The stage focuses on ensuring smooth resource deployment, supporting learners, and making final refinements to optimize the instructional experience.
References:
Reiser, R. A., & Dempsey, J. V. (Eds.). (2012). Trends and issues in instructional design and technology. Boston: Pearson.
This table has been created using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. AI has been used to support certain code features.
Table source: ELM leaning
ETEC 5440 - ADDIE Model
A group project featuring a CSS module, as part of a greater Moodle Cloud customization course delivered on Canvas LMS.
ETEC 6440 - D&C Model
An individual project featuring a 9-lesson course of Italian for total beginners, tailored to first-time travelers.
ETEC 6920 - SAM
The Practicum project focused on creating Canvas courses and Website implementations for the Cal Poly SLO Credential Office.
A mini-course for K–12 educators on using AI to save time, reduce stress, and enhance teaching impact.
I've developed a deeper understanding of instructional design models and effective educational technology implementation throughout my instructional design projects. The Moodle Customization project revealed the critical importance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles when creating accessible online content. Developing a website for the Italian for Traveling project taught me to align learning objectives with learner needs while highlighting the value of continuous feedback and iteration. My experience with Canvas for the School of Education Credential Office enhanced my ability to manage scope creep and balance multiple deadlines while maintaining quality.
The Prompt Engineering for K-12 Educators course allowed me to explore how emerging technologies can be utilized in instructional design and introduced to educators in a clear, practical, and accessible format.
Particularly valuable in all projects, in fact, was learning to break down technical concepts into digestible modules, making complex skills accessible for learners with varying skills and technical backgrounds.
These experiences reinforced my commitment to inclusive course design while revealing practical challenges like creating interactive exercises with limited coding expertise. Moving forward, I aim to deepen my understanding of instructional design strategies that balance technical depth with pedagogical accessibility, focusing on creating learning experiences that are both rigorous and inclusive for diverse student populations.