Instructional Design Strategies
Take a glimpse into the theories and practices used to create learning experiences that are educational and transformational.
Disclaimer: In compliance with Non-Disclosure Agreements, all content is a generalized summary without disclosing any identifying or proprietary information.
Applying Mayer’s 12 Principles of Multimedia Learning
Target Audience: Professionals enrolled in a two-month, intensive training program, requiring both synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences.
Responsibilities: Instructional Design, Script and Storyboard Development, Iterative Design Revisions, LMS Adaptation and Customization, Synchronous and Asynchronous Course Design
Tools Used: PowerPoint, Photoshop, Articulate Storyline, custom HTML and CSS, Thought Industries (LMS), Adobe Connect, Bongo
Needs Analysis
Given the outdated course’s reputation as one of the client’s most challenging courses, a thorough analysis highlighted the need for instructional strategies that would enhance understanding and retention, especially with a lot of content being delivered in an online setting.
Solution
To address this need, Mayer’s 12 Principles of Multimedia Learning were applied to both the synchronous and asynchronous components. This involved designing multimedia content that maximized cognitive engagement without overwhelming learners. Key principles such as coherence, signaling, redundancy, spatial and temporal contiguity, and individual differences were particularly emphasized. These principles guided the creation of interactive elements, narrative-driven content, and visually coherent materials that aligned with cognitive learning theories.
The synchronous sessions, facilitated through Adobe Connect, interactive elements were incorporated to provide real-time engagement and feedback. For the asynchronous parts hosted on Thought Industries, multimedia elements such as short videos, infographics, case studies, interactive SCORMs, Bongo interactive videos, and self-paced modules were used to reinforce learning and cater to different learning styles.
Results
The application of Mayer’s principles should transform one of the client’s most challenging courses into an engaging and effective learning experience. The course is set to launch later in 2024 and showcase how well-applied educational principles can significantly enhance the online learning experience, regardless of the platform used.
Applying Ebbinghause and Sweller to Field Training
Examples of providing intermittent courses and deliberate practices for continuous learning for technicians in the field.
Target Audience: Field workers with limited access to computers and time constraints, requiring efficient accessible training methods.
Responsibilities: Instructional Design, Script and Storyboard Development, Iterative Design and development.
Tools Used: Modbile-friendly learning platforms, microlearning modules, and varied multimedia content were the primary tools used to deliver the training.
Needs Analysis
The challenge was to provide effective training to field workers who had limited opportunities to engage with traditional, computer-based learning. The training needed to be concise, accessible on mobile devices, and designed for high retention in short time frames.
Solution
To address this challenge, Ebbinghaus’ principles on the learning curve were applied to develop a training strategy that maximized retention and minimized forgetting. This involved creating microlearning modules that field workers could access and absorb quickly. The modules were designed for repeated exposure to key concepts, in alignment with the spacing effect, which is a crucial aspect of Ebbinghaus’ theory for improving memory retention.
John Sweller’s Cognitive Load Theory also guided the instructional design to reduce cognitive overload. The training materials were simplified to focus on essential information, using straightforward language and visuals. Interactive elements were incorporated to facilitate active learning, and the content was structured to align with the workers’ existing knowledge and experience, thus reducing extraneous cognitive load.
Results
The implementation of these methodologies led to an increase in the learning curve among these field workers. They were able to quickly grasp and retain crucial information, which was reflected in their improved performance and efficiency in the field. Feedback indicated that the training was not only more accessible, but also less overwhelming, leading to higher engagement and satisfaction.
Integrating 70:20:10 Learning Model in Healthcare Training
Target Audience: Practitioners and nurses needing up-to-date training in patient care.
Responsibilities: Instructional Design, Action Mapping, solutioning, storyboarding, eLearning Development, Graphic Design
Tools Used: Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, PowerPoint, Articulate Storyline, custom HTML and CSS
Needs Analysis
A needs analysis identified the requirement for nurses to stay current with medical practices, specifically in recognizing and reversing patient deterioration. The learning strategy needed to integrate practical, peer-to-peer, and formal learning elements in line with the 70:20:10 model.
Solution
The course was designed with the 70:20:10 framework at its core.
70% Experiential Learning
The majority of the learning was experiential, achieved through immersive simulations. Nurses engaged in realistic scenarios where they practiced identifying patient deterioration signs and making critical decisions. This hands-on approach allowed them to learn by doing, which is essential in their field.
20% Social Learning
Collaboration and peer learning were encouraged through discussion forums and peer-review sessions. Nurses shared experiences and insights, fostering a community of learning and support.
10% Formal Learning
The structured modules provided the foundational knowledge required. These were delivered through eLearning modules that included interactive content and multimedia elements to enhance engagement and retention.
Results
This integrated approach led to positive outcomes, with nurses showing marked improvement in recognizing and responding to patient deterioration. Feedback highlighted the effectiveness of combining experiential, social, and formal learning, resonating with the practical demands of healthcare professionals. The course’s success has paved the way for further development of advanced modules, continuing to blend these learning methodologies.