If you are unsure which theory to use to wow your learners, keep reading as this blog will make you say wow – that’s easy!
Select Your Learning Theory
While many good instructional designs focus on the UI or presentation design, the most important thing is that you understand the different learning theories and how people learn. Let’s jump right into it. First, since adults learn differently and depending on the task, one will select one theory over the others. Suppose the expected result is to motivate the learners by compensating them with a positive or negative reward. In that case, your focus is on behaviors interacting with the environment, then select the behavioral learning theory. Second, if your task is to help learners enhance comprehension and apply such learning from memory to increase problem-solving skills, then you will use the cognitive theory. Third, when the focus is not on the instructor and the solution is user-centric, role-play is necessary with immediate feedback, then apply the constructive learning theory.
Organizing one’s thoughts on these three theories is essential to fully understanding and developing instructional design material that will wow the learners. Remember that regardless of your chosen approach, each needs learning objectives, learning activities, and a well-executed needs assessment.
What Works for Me
While developing my instructional design materials, most lean towards using the constructive approach. This theory works best since I revolve around the domain of software demos and software training. In addition, because this approach is user-centric, role-play fits in perfectly since the learners are required to use the software in real-world scenarios. Finally, real-world scenarios encourage immediate feedback adding value to the learning and teaching experience. So, if you want to wow and elevate your instructional design materials, organize your thoughts on these three theories, apply them accordingly, and take and give feedback!