As with most design approaches, the steps you need to take only appear to be linear. In fact, the design, development and testing processes are essentially iterative, but with complex interactions. Multiple design threads occur simultaneously and at different levels. They affect previously 'completed' steps as ongoing development and testing reveals areas which need attention.

Instructional Design - the three interwoven threads
	Thread 1 : The Conceptual Design Instructional design is a methodology which supports the design and development of courses and units so that they meet the needs of the target learners. An instructional designer's role complements that of subject matter specialists, and is loosely analogous to that of an architect in a building development. Once learner needs have been determined and the essential learning outcomes crystallised, the assessments (to test whether learning outcomes have been achieved) and learning activities (to support the achievement of those outcomes) can be designed in collaboration with subject matter experts. Supporting resources (such as notes, references, case studies, interactive multimedia and passive audio & video) can be identified/created and their delivery mechanisms designed. Thread 2 : The Interface Design In online unit development, instructional design also covers the course 'architecture'. This is the design and layout of the user interface to expedite navigation, to help lead the student through the content and to contextualise that content. The 'look & feel' of the online unit begins to take shape at this stage and, together with support from the other two design threads, can help to create an environment conducive to a sense of engagement for the learner. Thread 3 : Bling - the fun things that engage learners. Or, in Eduspeak: " Multimedia Enrichment & Relationship Building Tools" Instructional design will often involve the selection, creation and deployment of educational multimedia material. While multimedia use should not be an end in itself, it can provide rich interactivity and increased learner engagement. The judicious integration of links to appropriate social software can also provide some of the 'glue' that helps create and bind an online community of practice.
During the design stage, guidance and oversight can often provided by an eLearning Reference Group - a group of stakeholders and 'critical friends' who can help to frame the process with a broader, external viewpoint.

Instructional design approaches can vary widely and will depend on the project's requirements, your own pedagogical preferences, learners' needs and current institutional policy.

 

 

Both "Traditional ISD" (Instructional System Design) or "Rapid Instructional Design" approaches can be used as design frameworks. Explore both to help develop your own personalised development philosophy before proceeding to the notes on the 'Production' stage.

 

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