Introduction to Instructional Design

Instructional Design is becoming a fast rising field in education with a variety of roles available including Instructional Designer, Learning and Development Managers, Learning Experience Developers and E-Learning Developers. According to Glassdoor, Instructional Designers in Nigeria earn between N180,000 - N200,000 per month

In this introductory article, you'll receive foundational knowledge of Instructional Design, the Learning theories and various Instructional Design Models.

Table of Content

1. What is Instructional Design
2. Learning Theories in Instructional Design
3. Instructional Design Models

What is Instructional Design?

Instructional design is the strategic framework for creating impactful learning experiences, combining elements of educational psychology, systematic processes, and creativity to make learning both effective and engaging. Over time, instructional design has become an indispensable tool for developing courses that are relevant, accessible, and tailored to learner needs—particularly in today’s digital and hybrid learning environments. This blog delves into the core learning theories and popular instructional design models that have shaped educational practices, providing educators with a blueprint for developing efficient and appealing instructional experiences.

Learning Theories in Instructional Design

Instructional design rests on several foundational learning theories that guide how information is presented, absorbed, and retained. The theories in Instructional Design are: Behaviourism, Cognitivism, Constructivism, Connectivism. Each theory provides unique insights into the learning process, helping designers tailor experiences to maximize engagement and comprehension.

1. Behaviorism

   Grounded in the idea that learning is primarily a change in observable behavior, behaviorism views learners as passive receivers of knowledge who respond to stimuli. Instruction under behaviorism is highly structured, with lessons designed around clear, measurable objectives. Progress is achieved through reinforcement and repetition, often involving rewards for correct answers and immediate feedback for mistakes. For example, in a language-learning app, users might be rewarded with points or badges each time they complete a vocabulary drill correctly, encouraging repetition and retention. Behaviorism is especially effective for learning tasks that require memorization or the acquisition of foundational skills, such as math facts or language pronunciation.

2. Cognitivism

   Cognitivism shifts the focus from observable behaviors to the internal processes of the mind, emphasizing how people perceive, process, store, and recall information. It sees the learner as an active participant who organizes and categorizes new information. Lessons are often structured to support effective processing, using techniques like chunking, repetition, and scaffolding to help learners build mental models of new concepts. For instance, teachers might use visual aids like flowcharts or mind maps to break down complex topics, such as scientific concepts, into digestible parts. This approach is particularly useful in subjects where understanding underlying structures or relationships is key, like history or biology.

3. Constructivism

   Constructivism proposes that learners actively construct their own understanding through experiences, rather than passively absorbing information. Learning in a constructivist setting is often inquiry-based, encouraging students to explore, ask questions, and derive meaning from their experiences. Group projects, hands-on experiments, and problem-solving tasks are common strategies, as they allow students to develop conclusions based on real-world applications. For example, in a social studies class, students might work together to research and create presentations on different cultures, building their own understanding of global diversity. Constructivism supports creativity and critical thinking, as students are encouraged to draw connections between their learning and the world around them.

4. Connectivism

   A theory developed for the digital age, connectivism posits that learning occurs through networks and connections—both social and technological. Learners draw on diverse resources, using digital platforms and social interactions to explore topics and share insights. Instruction emphasizes the importance of navigating and leveraging information networks, which helps students build connections and acquire information from various sources. For example, in a media studies course, students might use social media and online forums to discuss trends, share resources, and engage with experts in the field. Connectivism encourages adaptability, collaboration, and digital literacy, skills that are increasingly relevant in today’s interconnected world.

Instructional Design Models

Instructional design models offer structured frameworks that help designers organize content, define objectives, and create assessments. While each model varies in its approach, they all share the goal of creating impactful learning experiences.

1. ADDIE Model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation)
   

   ADDIE is one of the foundational models in instructional design, widely used for its systematic and iterative approach. It provides a structured process that designers can follow from start to finish, incorporating feedback and revisions at each stage. 
   In the Analysis phase, designers identify learners’ needs, set objectives, and outline content. During Design, they select instructional strategies and create storyboards or prototypes. Development involves creating and testing learning materials. Implementation is where learners interact with the instruction, and Evaluation ensures the learning objectives were met, leading to revisions if needed. ADDIE’s versatility makes it popular for developing e-learning modules, corporate training, and educational curricula. You can read more about the ADDIE Model here.
   
   

2. SAM (Successive Approximation Model):
   

   An agile alternative to ADDIE, SAM emphasizes quick, iterative cycles of development, allowing for continuous feedback and improvements. Created by Michael Allen, SAM is ideal for environments that benefit from rapid prototyping and collaboration, as it allows designers to address issues as they arise. 
   

3. Merrill’s Principles of Instruction (MPI)

   Developed by David Merrill, MPI emphasizes task-centered learning. Merrill’s model is grounded in five principles: activation of prior knowledge, demonstration of skills, application of skills in practice, integration of new knowledge into real-life contexts, and engagement with content through problem-solving. For example, a business simulation course might use MPI principles to guide learners through realistic decision-making scenarios, requiring them to apply financial, management, and strategic knowledge. Merrill’s model is effective for project-based learning, as it fosters real-world skill development and encourages deep engagement with content.

4. Gagne’s Nine Events of Instruction
   

   Robert Gagne’s model offers a behaviorist framework with nine sequential steps, from gaining learners’ attention to assessing their performance. Each step provides a clear pathway, starting with capturing attention through a story or question, followed by establishing objectives, stimulating recall, presenting new content, providing guidance, eliciting performance, and offering feedback. For instance, in an online training module, these steps might be structured as a mix of interactive videos, quizzes, and activities that culminate in a final assessment. Gagne’s model works well for linear learning experiences, especially in subjects where clear, sequential instruction is needed, such as safety protocols or customer service training​.
   
   
5. Dick and Carey Model:
   This model views instruction as a systematic process, breaking it down into interdependent steps: identifying goals, conducting analyses, crafting assessments, designing strategies, developing materials, and implementing and evaluating instruction. Used widely in K-12 education and corporate settings, the model supports comprehensive planning and continuous evaluation. For instance, a professional development course might use Dick and Carey to structure content based on specific skill gaps, ensuring that each component—from initial needs assessment to final evaluations—aligns with the learners’ goals.
   
6. Kemp Design Model:
   Unlike linear models, the Kemp model is circular, emphasizing flexibility and continuous evaluation. It consists of nine components, including setting goals, analyzing learner needs, defining objectives, and choosing appropriate resources. Its iterative nature is ideal for dynamic learning environments where content may need frequent updates. For example, a blended course might rely on the Kemp model to balance in-person and online components, allowing for ongoing adjustments based on learner feedback and changing needs.
7. Action Mapping by Cathy Moore:
   Action Mapping emphasizes real-world actions that learners need to perform to meet instructional goals, helping designers cut unnecessary content and focus on skills. Each activity is mapped to specific, actionable objectives, making this model effective for job-related training. For instance, in a customer service training course, Action Mapping would focus on skills like handling complaints, managing escalations, and empathizing with customers rather than on excessive background knowledge. This approach is ideal for corporate training and practical, skill-oriented courses where learners are expected to perform specific tasks.

By understanding and applying these principles, instructional designers can craft educational experiences that rise to today’s complex learning challenges. As the field continues to evolve alongside technology, educators and designers alike can benefit from staying informed on these models and experimenting with their applications to create innovative, impactful learning environments. For those interested in diving deeper, you can enroll in our e-learning design courses that provide valuable and practical insights into ADDIE Model.

Begin Your Career in Instructional Design

Instructional Design is an exciting field in education. With the right guidance, you can have a thriving career in this field in many industries. 

Schoolinka is dedicated to helping people have thriving careers in Education. 

We will be hosting a free virtual Instructional Design Bootcamp in January 2025. You can register here.