Instructional Design Frameworks
What is ADDIE?
This classic 5-phase framework stands for Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation.
What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?
This framework ensures learning materials are accessible to all individuals by providing multiple means of Engagement, Representation, and Action & Expression.
What is Extraneous Cognitive Load?
Sweller’s Cognitive Load Theory identifies three types of load: Intrinsic, Germane, and this unproductive load that good design eliminates.
What is Constructive Alignment?
Effective learning designers ensure this exact match exists between learning objectives, assessment tasks, and learning activities.
What are Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)?
Learning designers work closely with these domain experts to source, verify, and structure core subject matter.
What is Backward Design
Proposed by Wiggins and McTighe, this design approach starts with the desired learning outcomes before designing assessments or content.
What are learner personas?
Effective learning designers build these semi-fictional representations of target learners based on demographic and contextual data.
What is the Spatial Contiguity Principle?
According to Mayer’s Multimedia Principles, learning is more effective when words and graphics are placed near each other on a screen, known as this spatial principle.
What is SCORM (or xAPI / Experience API)?
This technical standard allows e-learning content created in authoring tools like Storyline or Rise to communicate completions and scores to a Learning Management System.
What is a Needs Analysis (or Performance Analysis)?
Effective learning designers conduct this critical first step to determine whether a performance gap requires training or a non-training intervention (like better tools or clear policies).
What is SAM (Successive Approximation Model)?
This rapid prototyping model uses iterative cycles of design, prototype, and review, offering an agile alternative to ADDIE.
What are Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust?
The international web standards framework (WCAG) requires digital learning content to meet these four principles, abbreviated as POUR.
What is Competence?
Self-Determination Theory argues that intrinsic motivation requires meeting three basic psychological needs: Autonomy, Relatedness, and this third need.
What is Redefinition?
The SAMR technology integration model categorises tech use into Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and the highest transformative level.
What is a Storyboard?
This visual outline or wireframe maps out screen-by-screen interactions, visual layouts, and audio scripts before media production begins.
What are authentic tasks (or task-centred learning)?
According to Merrill’s First Principles of Instruction, learning is promoted when learners are engaged in solving these real-world problems.
What is the Redundancy Principle (or Cognitive Overload)?
This cognitive load concept explains why presenting redundant visual text alongside matching audio narration can overwhelm a learner's processing capacity.
What is Creating?
Bloom’s Revised Taxonomy places "Remembering" at the base and this cognitive skill at the highest tier.
What is Media Selection / Affordance Analysis?
Rather than picking technology first, effective learning designers evaluate media choice based on these explicit elements: Objectives, Media Attributes, and Learner Characteristics.
What is Results (Level 4)?
Kirkpatrick’s 4-Level Evaluation Model measures Reaction, Learning, Behavior, and this ultimate business or organizational outcome.
What is gaining attention?
Gagne’s 9 Events of Instruction states that an effective learning designer must always start a lesson with this event to hook the learner.
What is scaffolding?
Effective designers use Vygotsky's concept of temporary instructional support, which is gradually removed as learner independence increases.
What is the Testing Effect (or Retrieval Practice)
The phenomenon where practicing retrieval of information (like taking a quiz) produces better long-term retention than simply re-studying material.
What is Summative Evaluation?
Formative evaluation happens during development, whereas this type of evaluation determines the overall effectiveness and impact of a completed course.
What is Reflective Practice?
Effective learning designers practice this skill, systematically evaluating their own design decisions post-implementation to improve future learning experiences.