Inside Instructional Design - Chapter 4

The ADDIE method of Design in chapter 4 focuses on the best delivery system options available for the designer to choose from. These decisions are based on the corresponding learning activities required to meet the established objectives and goals of the training. Not everyone learns the same way and therefore different approaches should be considered.

One learning activity that I liked was to utilize embedded tests. They can be strategically placed with the training plan to highlight specific criteria. They can be a short summary or quick review questions based on what the student or trainee has just been exposed to, and what key activities of the training should have been retained. They can be applied as either a written or oral test or quiz. The results can then be reviewed and additional training or a varied delivery method may be implemented.

Another new learning activity for me was the Instructional Games. I like that it is both informative and provides a path of entertainment. Students and trainees can utilize this type of activity to learn required critical skills, it provides a simulated experience and allows for challenging collaboration.

Initially one might think that it shouldn’t be too difficult designing a course if you already know the material being taught. But would you believe that it might take hours of analytical assessments, hours of data collecting, and then hours of instructional interviews to finally have what you think is enough information to build the design; only to find out that you now have to decide on what method(s) of delivery you will be using to affectively deliver the training!

Thankfully I’m going to try and shorten it up for us. I’m only going to discuss a few delivery methods that I am more comfortable with. They are the Instructor-Led Classroom and Job Performance Aids.

The Instructor led classroom is one that we are all familiar with since going to school as an adolescent. The classroom training provides an interactive atmosphere among trainees with a live trainer and or facilitator present. Most students are familiar with this delivery method, I like it for what it provides the trainer and the advantages that come with like how well it accommodates group sizes, provides for breakout sessions, contains the latest instructional media options, and offers immediate and individualized feedback for students and trainees.  

My second choice is the Job Performance Aids. This method utilizes specialized materials that will be used and implemented on the job. Therefore, this material is based on actual tasks that the trainee will have to perform exactly as instructed. These can vary from things that are considered simple to some that are critical, complex and may require specific sequencing. As a technical instructor that has to use manufacturer specific or industry documentation that meet federal inspection requirements, this is the ideal method of delivery.

In conclusion, there is so much more to designing a course than simply knowing the subject matter! Stay in touch, there's more to come next week.

Thanks for reading my Blog, Mr. G.