The Instructional Design Process

S.M.A.R.T. Objectives:

1. By the end of the course participants will be able to identify 2 different teaching activities 

2. By the end of the course participants will be able to describe the 2 types of evaluation

3. By the end of the course participants will be able to explain the purpose of the Learner Analysis

From beginning to end as a process, instructional design starts with analyzing the learning needs and goals followed by developing the delivery system to new business. In order to fulfill all parts of this process it is best to approach instructional design systematically. This will ensure that instructional activities, materials, and evaluations properly address the needs and goals of learners.

It is a scientific discipline that constantly takes from the bindings of other disciplines such as communist psychology or communication in order to study and advance how instructors develop, deliver, and evaluate instructional practices.

The needs analysis is very important at the beginning of the instructional design process since instructional designers have to identify the needs to be addressed. The needs analysis should also give the instructional designer an idea of goals for instruction if they haven't been laid out beforehand. The needs analysis is generally conducted through surveys, interviews, and pre-tests. 

Click Here to see an example of a Need Analysis w/ surveys

Learner analysis gives the instructional designer comprehension of learner's previous knowledge, skills, and background on the related content. This analysis should also give the instructor some insight as to what learners feel about the learning task or subject matter. 

Click Here to see an example of a Learner Analysis w/ surveys

After taking the time to thoroughly analyze the needs, tasks, and learners involved with the instruction, it is time to develop activities that will help the learners grasp the content. There are a number of different activities that have been proven effective that should be used in specific situations. Three examples are:

• Simulations

  • Simulations provide Learners the ability to experience the content how they would in the real world but in a classroom setting. This is particularly helpful when physical safety is a potential problem. It also can lead to better and more informed decision making without real-world risk.

• Reflective writing

  • Reflective writing is perfect for reflecting on the task after it's completion with a written response to guided questions. It's very effective when followed with a question and answer session.

• Cooperative learning

  • Cooperative learning is a very popular approach especially for low and middle achieving learners. It's most efficient in small groups. This also gives students a chance to work on their interpersonal skills, communication, and conflict management skills.