Instructional Design Theories That Have Aged Well
Instruction design is ever elvolving. However, some older theories are still relevant. Here are some instructional design theories that have aged well. Clarity Consultants

The world of instructional design is certainly ever-evolving, particularly when it comes to implementing new technologies. However, some of the approaches of yesteryear haven’t lost their relevance. Instead, they remain an integral part of instructional design theory, at least in some form.

If you are curious about instructional design methods that have aged at least relatively well, here’s what you need to know.

The ADDIE Model

One of the earliest instructional design models, the ADDIE model, is still in use today, guiding how many course designers create eLearning material. Each phase – analysis, design, develop, implement, and evaluate – creates opportunities for growth and discovery. Plus, the end result of a course often leads to actionable insights, supporting prolonged improvement and development.

While some designers believe that ADDIE is a bit antiquated, it has yet to fall entirely out of favor. In fact, there’s a chance that it won’t ever disappear altogether. Instead, it will be part of a larger framework, augmented by new theories without being completely overrun.

Bloom’s Taxonomy

Initially created in the 1950s, Bloom’s Taxonomy represents how learners grow, ultimately reaching a deeper understanding of what they’re learning. While it was updated in 2001, the core principles remained the same, focusing on helping learners build their knowledge to achieve new levels of comprehension.

Today, many people view Bloom’s Taxonomy as a solid approach for creating learning objectives. In turn, this lets it serve as a foundation for course design.

Merrill’s Principles of Instruction

After nearly two decades, Merrill’s Principles of Instruction (MPI) are also still considered a mainstay in the world of instructional design. The goal is to focus on real-world problems or challenges, making it easier for learners to relate new information to their lives. Additionally, it aims to connect new knowledge to prior understandings, using an engaging, multi-facets approach for information delivery.

MPI also covers the need for learners to apply what they’ve discovered in a meaningful way. There are practice opportunities, as well as a deeper understanding through reflection.

Are You Ready to Embrace Leading Instructional Design Theories to Create Better Training?

Creating outstanding training doesn’t happen by accident. By aligning your approach with the right methodologies, you have a great chance of success, increasing the odds that any coursework you create will be both engaging and effective.

If you need support from L&D experts to embrace leading instructional design theories, create a better training experience, and enhance learning outcomes, Clarity Consultants wants to hear from you. With more than a quarter of a century of experience in the L&D industry, Clarity makes it easy to access the experts you need to craft your ideal program. Plus, the team at Clarity can act as your L&D candidate search allies, ensuring you can reach the top talent you need to thrive.

If you would like to partner with skilled L&D professionals who can make creating better training as easy as possible, Clarity Consultants is here. Contact us today.

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