Introduction to Instructional Design Theories

I wonder how many of us actually know the meaning of “Instructional Design Theory”.  Many a times we mistake the term Instructional Design Theory for Learning Theory.  There is difference between the two — let’s see what that difference is.

An Instructional Design Theory provides guidance on how to help people learn and develop and is prescriptive.  A Learning Theory describes how learning happens and is descriptive. For instance, the Learn One theory by Perkins suggests that to enhance learning for any performance we want to teach, the instruction should provide clear information, thoughtful practice, informative feedback, and strong intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.  This theory guides you about the ways in which you can enhance learning and therefore it is an Instructional Design theory. On the other hand, the Information Processing theory describes how new information enters the short-term memory before entering the long -term memory.  Therefore, it is a Learning theory.

Let’s look at some common characteristics of instructional design theories.  

·         Instructional design theories are design oriented, which means they focus on the different ways of achieving goals of learning and development. For instance, learning goal can be to “teach XYZ process”. So, an Instructional Design Theory would provide guidance on how this process can be taught.

·         These theories identify methods of instruction and different ways in which designers can and cannot use these methods. One of the methods of teaching the XYZ process could be to provide clear information about the process.

·         The methods suggested in instructional design theories can be further broken down into more detailed components. For instance, you can break the method of providing clear information into flow charts and scenarios.               

·         Instructional design theories follow probabilistic approach. This means that an instructional design theory increases the chances of attaining learning goals. These theories do not ensure that the learning goals will be attained. For instance, if you provide clear information using flow charts and scenarios for teaching XYZ process, you increase the probability that learner will understand the process.

I hope this clarifies our understanding of what Instructional Design Theories are!