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The eLearning & Instructional Design Roadmap: An Un-Boring Guide for Newbies, Career-Changers, and Anyone Who Wants to Build Better E Learning
Find all the tools for engaging eLearning in one step-by-step, practical roadmap!
Instructional design offers powerful ways to build training and teach new skills, but its methods run DEEP. Finding a clear, easy-to-follow path can be frazzling. Where do you even start? Whether you’re a new instructional designer, looking to transition from another job, or tasked with training for your organization, this book will help get you rolling! We’ll dig into examples and spin tips, tactics, and research-backed learning principles into a professional workflow.
We’ll explore…
Understanding eLearning and instructional design How memory works and ways to design for sticky learning Professional tools, models, and frameworks Working with clients and subject matter experts (SMEs) Defining your learners and goals Outlines, storyboards, and visual design Style guides and layout templates Creating and presenting prototypes Adding interactivity and multimedia Implementing and evaluating your learning experience And much more!
Curious about industry standards like ADDIE and SAM? Want to conduct a needs assessment or task analysis? Need to draft business goals, learning objectives, or action maps before going hands-on with storyboards and prototypes?
Great! We’ve got you covered.
From conceptual classics to modern, hands-on tactics, we’ll get you equipped and ready for the field. We’ll walk through tools of the trade and prepare you to work with clients, subject matter experts, and developers.
Want to create better eLearning? For an actionable, un-boring approach, roll up your sleeves and listen on!
Instructional design offers powerful ways to build training and teach new skills, but its methods run DEEP. Finding a clear, easy-to-follow path can be frazzling. Where do you even start? Whether you’re a new instructional designer, looking to transition from another job, or tasked with training for your organization, this book will help get you rolling! We’ll dig into examples and spin tips, tactics, and research-backed learning principles into a professional workflow.
We’ll explore…
Understanding eLearning and instructional design How memory works and ways to design for sticky learning Professional tools, models, and frameworks Working with clients and subject matter experts (SMEs) Defining your learners and goals Outlines, storyboards, and visual design Style guides and layout templates Creating and presenting prototypes Adding interactivity and multimedia Implementing and evaluating your learning experience And much more!
Curious about industry standards like ADDIE and SAM? Want to conduct a needs assessment or task analysis? Need to draft business goals, learning objectives, or action maps before going hands-on with storyboards and prototypes?
Great! We’ve got you covered.
From conceptual classics to modern, hands-on tactics, we’ll get you equipped and ready for the field. We’ll walk through tools of the trade and prepare you to work with clients, subject matter experts, and developers.
Want to create better eLearning? For an actionable, un-boring approach, roll up your sleeves and listen on!
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Published January 19, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
September 17, 2023
New and seasoned IDs pay attention!!!
I have been an ID for over 15 years. I learned by doing, from mentors, and experimenting, then getting a degree. This book takes all that and makes it fun, easy to digest, and practical. You need to think differently to be in a space to learn and the information provided in this book did that for me. While I went in with an attitude of been there, know that; I was pleasantly surprised right out of the gate. I was reminded of important tools and approaches and took away new approaches for the work I do every day. Great resource to invest in as I have already revisited it to remind myself of questions to ask (handy segment) when kicking off a new project with new team members.
I have been an ID for over 15 years. I learned by doing, from mentors, and experimenting, then getting a degree. This book takes all that and makes it fun, easy to digest, and practical. You need to think differently to be in a space to learn and the information provided in this book did that for me. While I went in with an attitude of been there, know that; I was pleasantly surprised right out of the gate. I was reminded of important tools and approaches and took away new approaches for the work I do every day. Great resource to invest in as I have already revisited it to remind myself of questions to ask (handy segment) when kicking off a new project with new team members.
July 18, 2024
The eLearning & Instructional Design Roadmap is a comprehensive, practical guide to introduce readers to the multifaceted world of instructional design. Cook addresses various topics, from foundational learning theories to practical project management and stakeholder collaboration applications. Here is a detailed summary incorporating key notes, excerpts, and expanded ideas from other sources.
Introduction
Cook sets the stage by explaining the book’s objectives: to cover essential learning theories, demonstrate how to work effectively with clients and subject matter experts (SMEs), and provide a framework for managing eLearning projects from start to finish. By the end of the book, readers will be equipped with the knowledge to see a project through all its phases.
Instructional Design 101
This chapter introduces instructional design as a discipline that spans various fields, including education, corporate training, and gaming. Cook emphasizes the importance of having a strong portfolio, as practical experience often outweighs formal qualifications such as a Master’s in Education. Key principles from UX design are highlighted as valuable tools in creating effective instructional materials. Instructional designers must be adept at blending educational content with user-friendly design to facilitate better learning experiences.
Designing for Memory
Cook delves into cognitive psychology, discussing leveraging working, sensory, short-term, and long-term memory to enhance learning retention. She explains that information should be chunked into manageable units to prevent cognitive overload and that repetition and practice are crucial for transferring knowledge from short-term to long-term memory.
Recipes for Effective Learning
In this section, Cook contrasts adult learning (andragogy) with child learning (pedagogy). While adults and children benefit from practical, goal-oriented learning, adults require more autonomy and relevance in their learning experiences. Cook suggests allowing adults to bypass basic content they already know and focusing on clear, actionable objectives. For children, maintaining engagement through interactive and entertaining activities is essential. Cook also highlights the importance of collaborative learning and hands-on demonstrations for both age groups, emphasizing that learning is most effective when applied in real-world contexts.
A Taste of Project Management
Cook introduces project management principles, underscoring their relevance to instructional design. She explains the necessity of detailed planning, scheduling, and role definition at the project's outset. The chapter covers the agile methodology, advising instructional designers to remain flexible and ready to pivot as project needs evolve. This flexibility must be balanced with budget and timeline constraints, which requires clear communication with stakeholders.
Working with SMEs and Stakeholders
Effective collaboration with SMEs and stakeholders is critical for successful instructional design. Cook discusses the challenges of extracting useful information from SMEs, who may provide overwhelming detail. Instructional designers must be skilled at distilling this information to align with learning objectives. Another crucial skill is understanding stakeholders’ often vague needs and translating them into concrete learning goals.
Analyzing Learners' Needs and Tasks
Cook emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough learner and task analyses. This involves understanding learners' prior knowledge and skills, which can be assessed through pre-surveys. Tailoring instruction to meet learners' needs ensures relevant and engaging content. Cook also criticizes the overuse of long lists of methods, advocating for focusing on a few effective strategies that can be deeply explored and applied.
Building Objectives, Actions, and Practice Activities
Setting clear, specific learning objectives is fundamental to instructional design. Cook recommends using Bloom's taxonomy as a guide to create actionable and measurable objectives. She advises against vague goals and instead suggests detailed, context-specific objectives. For example, in a corporate training setting, objectives should specify the exact skills and knowledge required rather than stating that baristas need to know how to use a coffee machine.
Level of Fidelity
Cook outlines the importance of starting with low-fidelity designs—simple outlines or prototypes—before progressing to more detailed, high-fidelity versions. This approach saves time and allows for easier adjustments based on stakeholder feedback. Cook suggests presenting multiple low-fidelity options to stakeholders, explaining the pros and cons of each.
Evolving the Outline into a Storyboard
Creating a storyboard is a critical step in instructional design, akin to planning a movie. Cook explains that a storyboard should detail the sequence of learning activities, interactions, and assessments. It serves as a blueprint for the final product, ensuring all elements align with the learning objectives. Utilizing reusable storyboard templates can streamline the process and maintain consistency across projects.
Visual Design: A Crash Course
Cook covers fundamental visual design principles, including repetition, white space, and contrast. Understanding these basics is crucial for creating visually appealing and effective eLearning materials. Good visual design enhances aesthetics and aids in information retention and learner engagement.
Implement and Evaluate
The final section discusses the implementation and evaluation phases of eLearning projects. Cook stresses the importance of iterative testing and feedback to refine and improve learning experiences. Evaluation should be both formative (ongoing) and summative (end-of-project) to ensure that learning objectives are met and identify areas for improvement.
Conclusion
The eLearning & Instructional Design Roadmap is a valuable resource for anyone creating eLearning content. While the book's list-heavy approach may be overwhelming for some, its focus on practical advice and actionable strategies makes it a useful guide. Cook provides a roadmap for building effective and engaging eLearning experiences by combining theoretical insights with practical applications.
Introduction
Cook sets the stage by explaining the book’s objectives: to cover essential learning theories, demonstrate how to work effectively with clients and subject matter experts (SMEs), and provide a framework for managing eLearning projects from start to finish. By the end of the book, readers will be equipped with the knowledge to see a project through all its phases.
Instructional Design 101
This chapter introduces instructional design as a discipline that spans various fields, including education, corporate training, and gaming. Cook emphasizes the importance of having a strong portfolio, as practical experience often outweighs formal qualifications such as a Master’s in Education. Key principles from UX design are highlighted as valuable tools in creating effective instructional materials. Instructional designers must be adept at blending educational content with user-friendly design to facilitate better learning experiences.
Designing for Memory
Cook delves into cognitive psychology, discussing leveraging working, sensory, short-term, and long-term memory to enhance learning retention. She explains that information should be chunked into manageable units to prevent cognitive overload and that repetition and practice are crucial for transferring knowledge from short-term to long-term memory.
Recipes for Effective Learning
In this section, Cook contrasts adult learning (andragogy) with child learning (pedagogy). While adults and children benefit from practical, goal-oriented learning, adults require more autonomy and relevance in their learning experiences. Cook suggests allowing adults to bypass basic content they already know and focusing on clear, actionable objectives. For children, maintaining engagement through interactive and entertaining activities is essential. Cook also highlights the importance of collaborative learning and hands-on demonstrations for both age groups, emphasizing that learning is most effective when applied in real-world contexts.
A Taste of Project Management
Cook introduces project management principles, underscoring their relevance to instructional design. She explains the necessity of detailed planning, scheduling, and role definition at the project's outset. The chapter covers the agile methodology, advising instructional designers to remain flexible and ready to pivot as project needs evolve. This flexibility must be balanced with budget and timeline constraints, which requires clear communication with stakeholders.
Working with SMEs and Stakeholders
Effective collaboration with SMEs and stakeholders is critical for successful instructional design. Cook discusses the challenges of extracting useful information from SMEs, who may provide overwhelming detail. Instructional designers must be skilled at distilling this information to align with learning objectives. Another crucial skill is understanding stakeholders’ often vague needs and translating them into concrete learning goals.
Analyzing Learners' Needs and Tasks
Cook emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough learner and task analyses. This involves understanding learners' prior knowledge and skills, which can be assessed through pre-surveys. Tailoring instruction to meet learners' needs ensures relevant and engaging content. Cook also criticizes the overuse of long lists of methods, advocating for focusing on a few effective strategies that can be deeply explored and applied.
Building Objectives, Actions, and Practice Activities
Setting clear, specific learning objectives is fundamental to instructional design. Cook recommends using Bloom's taxonomy as a guide to create actionable and measurable objectives. She advises against vague goals and instead suggests detailed, context-specific objectives. For example, in a corporate training setting, objectives should specify the exact skills and knowledge required rather than stating that baristas need to know how to use a coffee machine.
Level of Fidelity
Cook outlines the importance of starting with low-fidelity designs—simple outlines or prototypes—before progressing to more detailed, high-fidelity versions. This approach saves time and allows for easier adjustments based on stakeholder feedback. Cook suggests presenting multiple low-fidelity options to stakeholders, explaining the pros and cons of each.
Evolving the Outline into a Storyboard
Creating a storyboard is a critical step in instructional design, akin to planning a movie. Cook explains that a storyboard should detail the sequence of learning activities, interactions, and assessments. It serves as a blueprint for the final product, ensuring all elements align with the learning objectives. Utilizing reusable storyboard templates can streamline the process and maintain consistency across projects.
Visual Design: A Crash Course
Cook covers fundamental visual design principles, including repetition, white space, and contrast. Understanding these basics is crucial for creating visually appealing and effective eLearning materials. Good visual design enhances aesthetics and aids in information retention and learner engagement.
Implement and Evaluate
The final section discusses the implementation and evaluation phases of eLearning projects. Cook stresses the importance of iterative testing and feedback to refine and improve learning experiences. Evaluation should be both formative (ongoing) and summative (end-of-project) to ensure that learning objectives are met and identify areas for improvement.
Conclusion
The eLearning & Instructional Design Roadmap is a valuable resource for anyone creating eLearning content. While the book's list-heavy approach may be overwhelming for some, its focus on practical advice and actionable strategies makes it a useful guide. Cook provides a roadmap for building effective and engaging eLearning experiences by combining theoretical insights with practical applications.
April 4, 2025
Great instructional design refresher for someone who finished their degree a few years (cough - decades) ago. I appreciated the short chapters and bulleted summaries at the end of each chapter. The writing style and organization lends itself to being a tool you could reference while doing a project. This will be used again!
August 20, 2024
UPDATE: Finished the paperback version and I highly recommend the hard copy over the audio.
I listened to the audiobook, but it wasn’t the best way to learn the material. I liked the content I heard, but in the end, I needed to purchase a paperback copy to be able to reference again in future projects.
I listened to the audiobook, but it wasn’t the best way to learn the material. I liked the content I heard, but in the end, I needed to purchase a paperback copy to be able to reference again in future projects.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews