Instructional Design: Back to Basics

I remember my 4-year old neighbor describing why Christmas is celebrated. She explained in her cute way that Jesus was born on this day and so this is celebrated as a holiday around the world. When I was wondering how smart children are, she shared that Christmas story was shown to her in school on a smart board and all the children in her class were made to role play. I was really impressed. I just felt that this is what Instructional design (ID) is all about. It is about creating a learning experience.

Technically speaking, ID is the practice of creating "instructional experiences which make the acquisition of knowledge and skill more efficient, effective, and appealing." ID is about delivering effective training for corporate, schools, colleges, government, military, and so on. ID may range from teaching Algebra to a high school student to teaching a Software Application to a Technician working in a Plant. Anywhere, there is going to be a training program, you will find ID practices. However, the challenge is bridging the gap between what is taught and what is effectively learned. How to engage learners with clear and meaningful training content? How to create a learning experience?

Well, as Instructional Designers we are taught the basic theories and strategies of making learning effective and interesting. My next few posts will talk about my journey in this field - unraveling the fundamental ID concepts, theories, strategies, and the best practices. Feel free to share your opinions and the latest updates in this field with me at richasmita@gmail.com.