The need for useful instructional design models has always been at the forefront of all types of the educational experience. Throughout the years, various instructional design formats have been introduced to assist with the process of creating curricula and course planning options that would prove successful in helping people learn. Although some of these models such as ADDIE have proven the test of time, currently the use of the Successive Approximation Model has become quite popular for its unique, flexible approach to producing learning modules that have proven quite successful in application. What is the Successive Approximation Model? Successive Approximation Model (SAM) is an agile development model created by Michael Allen, a recognized pioneer, and leader in the design of interactive multimedia learning tools and applications. SAM is a method that Allen applied to his instructional design models as a means of creating more effective and efficient ways to build quality training … [Read more...] about The New Frontier Of Successive Approximation Model
Instructional Design and ELearning
How To Select The Best LMS Provider
A decade or so ago, organizations, schools, colleges and universities had many options for commercial E-Learning development software products. However, because of mergers and acquisitions, and Learning Management Software (LMS) industry consolidations, the options for developing and hosting E-learning courses have declined. As a result, more and more, knowledge providers are looking for viable alternatives. If you are looking for commercial LMS providers, then some names for you to consider are: Blackboard http://www.blackboard.com Desire to Learn http://www.desire2learn.com Sumtotal http://www.sumtotalsystems.com/ Saba http://www.saba.com/us/ and eCollege http://www.ecollege.com/index.learn However, if you have budgetary constraints (as most organizations face today!), then perhaps you should look at some popular free and open source LMS solutions, including: ATutor http://www.atutor.ca/ Claroline http://www.claroline.net/ Dokeos http://www.dokeos.com/ … [Read more...] about How To Select The Best LMS Provider
ELearning Instructional Design Considerations That Accelerate The Pace And Quality Of Learning
A firm understanding of the mindset of adult learners and andragogy, along with its related theories and assumptions, is essential to effectively teach adult learners. When you use instructional design time-tested principles, adult learners are more likely to effectively receive, understand and retain knowledge being imparted via eLearning, than they would when using other non-systematic design approaches. Good instructional systems design is the foundation for building learning modules that adult students can relate to. That is because andragogy (the most celebrated theory of adult learning) recognizes that adults Learn differently than younger learners do Are self-directed and self-motivated Are more practical in their learning goals and objectives, and Learn better when respected and treated with dignity. By strategically combining all the elements of this theory into relevant instructional design principles, instructional designers can build truly effective … [Read more...] about ELearning Instructional Design Considerations That Accelerate The Pace And Quality Of Learning
Do Instructional Designers Need To Conduct Needs Analysis – The Most Neglected Phase In The ADDIE Model
Analysis is the first yet the most neglected phase of the ADDIE model. Although most ISD professionals recognize its value in the overall instructional design process, they almost always skip this step. As a result, their training courses often do not bring the desired results. The main reason for skipping the analysis phase is budget constraints as well as the fact that most stakeholders do not understand the real value behind needs analysis. As a result, they come to you with what they consider real training need without even realizing that training, in fact, may not be the solution. So, why do we need to conduct needs analysis? The main reason is to determine if training is ultimately the solution to the problem, and if it is, then to find the best ways to approach and solve the problem. As we all know, training can only help if the performance problem lies in lack of knowledge or skills. If, however, the problem is related to lack of motivation, resources, or anything else … [Read more...] about Do Instructional Designers Need To Conduct Needs Analysis – The Most Neglected Phase In The ADDIE Model
How To Choose ELearning Authoring Tool That Meets Your Needs
Nowadays, there are so many rapid eLearning authoring tools on the market that selecting the best one is often challenging. At the end, it comes down to personal preference, but the following tips can help you make an appropriate selection. Make a list of functionalities important to you - As you “play” with authoring tools, see which software best meets your needs. If you are unsure, you can always call a vendor and ask questions about the required features. However, keep in mind that vendors are salespeople whose ultimate goal is to make their piece of software standout among the rest and lead you into purchasing it. Therefore, always double-check the information provided by the vendor by asking people already using the tool about their experiences. Figuring out what’s important to you should always be your first step. As you evaluate each tool, you must know what you are looking for. Consider prioritizing your list by placing the must-have features on the top of the list and … [Read more...] about How To Choose ELearning Authoring Tool That Meets Your Needs
How To Avoid Cognitive Overload When Designing Training Courses
Memory is the key concept when dealing with learning. When we are trying to learn something new, we store the information surrounding the concept in the working memory. Once in the working memory space, we begin to process the information. Unfortunately, memory is not infinite and its capacities varies from person to person. This means that some people are able to remember more items during a learning process than others. However, the working memory may in fact be overloaded. Cognitive load theory was first described by G.A. Miller. He stated that there is always a limit as for how many ideas we can hold at a time. He supported his theory with an experiment that showed that people may retain “seven plus or minus two digits”. John Sweller developed cognitive load theory or CLT. This theory applies to all learners and delivery methods. There are at least three main types of cognitive load: intrinsic, extraneous, and the germane. The intrinsic load is determined by instructional goals … [Read more...] about How To Avoid Cognitive Overload When Designing Training Courses