Instructional Design Foundations and Applications Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to instructional design, combining foundational theories with practical applications. You'll explore key models, learn to assess learning needs, design effective instruction, and evaluate outcomes. The course is structured into six modules totaling approximately 22 hours, designed for flexible, self-paced learning. Ideal for beginners and professionals in education, corporate training, or eLearning development.
Module 1: Introduction to Instructional Systems and Learning Theories
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Overview of instructional systems and their evolution
- Understanding the relevance of instructional design
- Behaviorist learning theory and its applications
- Cognitivist and constructivist learning theories
Module 2: Analyzing Learning and Performance Problems
Estimated time: 4 hours
- Identifying learning gaps and performance issues
- Conducting a needs assessment
- Differentiating instructional from non-instructional problems
- Using analysis data to guide design decisions
Module 3: Designing Instruction
Estimated time: 5 hours
- Applying the ADDIE instructional design model
- Using Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction
- Writing performance-based learning objectives
- Aligning content with instructional goals
Module 4: Developing and Implementing Instruction
Estimated time: 4 hours
- Creating effective instructional materials
- Selecting appropriate delivery formats
- Prototyping and testing course content
- Revising materials for implementation
Module 5: Evaluating and Revising Instruction
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Formative evaluation strategies
- Summative evaluation methods
- Using learner feedback for improvement
- Analyzing performance data to refine design
Module 6: Trends and Challenges in Instructional Design
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Adapting to new technologies in learning
- Exploring microlearning and agile development
- Addressing challenges in digital and face-to-face environments
- Exploring career pathways in instructional design
Prerequisites
- Basic computer literacy
- Familiarity with educational or training environments
- No prior instructional design experience required
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Understand core principles and history of instructional design
- Apply instructional design models like ADDIE and backward design
- Conduct needs assessments and define measurable learning objectives
- Develop and implement effective instructional materials
- Evaluate and revise instruction using feedback and data