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Instructional Design (The Practical Way!)

Deep-dive into engaging learning design. Create ripples of change! Craft impactful learning experiences with the support of templates, guides and personalised coaching.

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What's included

12-week self-paced online course

Dive into the instructional design process, exploring best practices, learning theories guiding design decisions, essential consulting skills, and top technology tools for instructional designers.

3 x one-on-one coaching sessions

Benefit from personalised coaching sessions, customised to your needs, offering focused feedback and support on your project.

Instructional design toolkit and templates

Gain access to a comprehensive collection of practical tools and templates to assist you throughout the entire instructional design project.

Jump right into mastering the entire instructional design process, anchored by the acclaimed ADDIE model.

Our team of expert instructional designers has put together this program to give you the inside scoop and handy tools to really amp up your learning design skills.

Start putting together a standout portfolio:

  • Dive into learning theories, instructional design principles, and the latest tech.
  • Get creative with our templates and guides to craft programs that make a mark.

And the cherry on top? You’ll get one-on-one coaching sessions tailored just for you, packed with specific feedback and all the support you need.

In a nutshell...

What you’ll learn

End-to-end instructional design process.

Duration

Self-paced learning: around 10 hours, plus application of learning via relevant project (duration dependent on project size and complexity).

Delivery format

Online: eLearning and virtual coaching sessions.

Assessment

Real-life instructional design project to add to your portfolio or use in your workplace.

What you’ll receive

  • 12 months of access to eLearning content
  • Downloadable templates and guides (subject to our licence)
  • 3 x 90-minute coaching sessions
  • Certificate

Price

Limited time 50% off sale!

Was AUD $3,980 now AUD $1,990.

Option to pay in 4 installments.

 

Learning outcomes

 

Recognise adult learning principles that underpin effective instructional design.

Conduct a Learning Needs Analysis (LNA) to uncover capability gaps, using relevant tools.

Write active learning outcomes, based on identified needs.

Design impactful learning experiences for different modalities, in alignment with learning outcomes.

Apply visual design principles to materials development for effective learning and engagement.

Use practical tools and templates to bring the ADDIE process to life.

Draw on key instructional design consulting skills to ensure the relevancy and accuracy of learning solutions.

Learning map

Below is a map of your learning journey. (Click to enlarge.)

You’ll kick things off by selecting a project to focus on throughout the course, building both a bespoke learning program and your own portfolio.

You’ll be introduced to the ADDIE model, a cornerstone framework in instructional design, and the backbone to the course structure.

Alongside this, you’ll explore a comprehensive set of tools that make up your ADDIE toolkit. These tools will equip you with practical skills and resources needed at each stage of the instructional design process. From needs analysis techniques and storyboarding templates in the Design phase to content development software and learner feedback methods in the Evaluate phase, this toolkit is designed to provide you with everything you need to apply the ADDIE model effectively in real-world scenarios.

In this module, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of various learning theories and frameworks, which are the backbone of instructional design decisions and the foundation of crafting effective learning experiences. We’ll delve into key theories such as behaviourism, which focuses on the impact of external stimuli on learning; constructivism, emphasizing the learner’s active role in constructing knowledge; social learning, which highlights learning through observation and social interaction; and cognitivism, centred on the inner workings of the mind during learning.

But it’s not just about theoretical knowledge. You’ll learn to masterfully integrate these theories into practical, real-world learning activities. This means you’ll be equipped to apply behaviourist principles to create structured, step-by-step learning modules, use constructivist approaches to design interactive and exploratory activities, implement social learning by fostering collaborative environments, and use cognitive strategies to design content that enhances information processing and retention.

The course is designed to transform your understanding of these theories from mere concepts into actionable strategies. By the end of it, you’ll be adept at weaving these theories into the fabric of your instructional design projects, ensuring that your learning interventions are not only well-grounded in educational theory but also highly effective and deeply engaging for learners.

Here, you’ll learn how consultation fits within each phase of the ADDIE model and the art of building solid client relationships – a key aspect of thriving in this field. Key areas include developing emotional intelligence to navigate diverse emotions and needs, handling challenging conversations with finesse, and mastering stakeholder engagement to ensure their needs are met throughout your projects.

You’ll also gain insights into effective collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs), turning their expertise into learner-friendly content. Understanding team dynamics is essential, and you’ll learn to harness each member’s strengths for cohesive project execution.

You’ll learn how to figure out which stakeholders to engage and when, communication strategies, and how to nail your role in project management.

Here, you’ll get to grips with the nuts and bolts of a Learning Needs Analysis (LNA). It’s like being a detective, uncovering the business objectives and pinpointing exactly what learning is needed to hit those bullseyes.

You’ll unravel the process of defining what learners need to know, and figuring out what knowledge, skills, and behaviours your learners already have under their belts to identify the gaps that need filling.

Get ready to become a master at verifying an LNA. It’s all about making sure you’re tuning in to the right feedback, nailing the identification of performance gaps, and designing a learning solution that’s just the ticket to bridge those gaps.

You’ll apply these insights to define the scope and objectives of your project, ensuring that it’s tailored to address the real-world challenges and requirements of your audience

Coaching Session #1

Dive deep into your learning needs analysis in an exclusive one-on-one session with our top-notch instructional designer!

Together, we’ll dissect your findings – the audience, current capability vs desired capability, and identified learning needs.

We’ll explore the next steps – how you’ll weave in critical considerations like audience, learning needs, guiding principles and scope into the fabric of your learning architecture.

This session promises insights, feedback and a dash of inspiration.

Dive into the heart of instructional design with Module 5: Design. This module forms the foundation of your instructional design journey, teaching you to craft powerful learning objectives and structure content that captures and holds attention. Explore key design principles to make your course materials resonate with a diverse audience. Learn the nuances of aligning content with learning outcomes, ensuring every element contributes to the educational goal. We’ll guide you through innovative strategies to make complex information accessible and engaging, blending theory with practical application.

This module is not just about creating courses; it’s about designing transformative learning experiences that inspire and educate. You’ll emerge with the skills to conceptualise and deliver educational content that stands out for its clarity, relevance, and impact.

Coaching Session #2

Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into your high level design (HLD)!

Together, we’ll unpack your solution map, evaluating how each activity aligns with the targeted learning outcomes. We’ll confirm the content sets learners up to meet the learning outcomes, and ensure resources and topic timings are on point. We’ll discuss your embedding activity ideas to enhance learning transfer.

Digging deeper now, we’ll uncover the methodologies and learning theories that underpin your HLD, discussing how they shape and strengthen your design.

We’ll dissect other key HLD elements like learning materials and assessment methods to ensure your solution is solid.

Last but not least, we’ll review your Post-implementation evaluation strategy to make sure it’s primed to measure the program’s success in helping learners achieve their objectives.

Module 6: Design for Face-to-Face, elevates your ability to create interactive and engaging classroom experiences. Focused on maximising the unique benefits of in-person interactions, this module equips you with techniques to foster active participation, discussion, and collaboration. Delve into strategies for using physical space effectively, harnessing group dynamics, and incorporating hands-on activities. Learn to create a vibrant learning environment where learners are not just passive recipients but active contributors.

We cover everything from crafting engaging lectures to facilitating group work, ensuring your face-to-face courses are dynamic, participatory, and memorable. Whether you’re designing workshops, seminars, or full-length courses, this module provides the tools to make your face-to-face instructional designs as effective and enjoyable as possible.

In Module 7: Design for Virtual, you’ll explore the challenges and opportunities of virtual instructional design. This module teaches you how to craft virtual learning experiences that are not just informative, but also engaging and interactive. Learn to navigate the nuances of remote learning, from maintaining learner attention to building a sense of community online. We’ll guide you through selecting and using various digital tools to create interactive and immersive virtual courses. Discover how to make your virtual classrooms as lively and participatory as their physical counterparts.

This module is about breaking down the barriers of distance, using technology to connect and engage learners wherever they are. You’ll gain the skills to create virtual learning experiences that are accessible, inclusive, and genuinely engaging.

Module 8: Design for eLearning is your gateway to mastering digital education. In this module, you’ll learn to create compelling eLearning courses that leverage the best of multimedia, interactivity, and flexible learning paths. Delve into the art of designing for self-paced learning, ensuring that your courses are accessible, user-friendly, and effective. Understand how to employ various eLearning tools, from video and animation to interactive quizzes and simulations. We’ll explore strategies for personalising learning experiences, catering to different learning styles, and ensuring that your content is engaging and impactful.

This module is about transforming educational content into experiences that are not just consumed but interacted with and enjoyed. You’ll emerge with the expertise to create eLearning experiences that are as effective as they are engaging, suitable for a wide range of learners.

Here, we’ll connect the insights from the Analyse and Design phases to craft learning materials that truly resonate with learners and facilitators alike.

Learn to create impactful content by building on existing materials and diving into further research. Gain invaluable insights into engaging subject matter experts (SMEs) to infuse their expertise into your materials.

We’ll guide you on mastering the art of writing with the perfect tone, language, and level of detail to captivate your audience.

And the real magic? User testing – test your content with a select group of learners, immerse yourself in their interactions, soak up their feedback, and fine-tune your masterpiece.

Coaching session #3

In this session, you and your coach will delve deep into your learning materials.

They’ll review and provide invaluable feedback on all your resources, from the intricacies of the Facilitator and Learner guides to the visual appeal of PowerPoints and the practicality of Job aids.

Navigate the complexities of eLearning development with confidence, drawing from expert insights.

This session is tailored to ensure every piece of content you produce not only meets the standard but exceeds expectations.

Get ready to smoothly transition your learning program into capable hands!

 

In this section, you’ll discover the art of running an effective ‘train the trainer’ session. Equip facilitators with a comprehensive view of the entire program and show them where their sessions fit in. Walk them through the relevant resources and activities they’ll lead.

Learn how to engage leaders’ support in transferring the learning from the program to the job by facilitating embedding activities, such as coaching session.

Dive into the nitty-gritty of prepping for a pilot, executing it, and gathering invaluable feedback. Master the skill of distilling those insights to fine-tune your program, paving the way for a successful, impactful launch.

Step into the Evaluate phase, where you’ll leverage Kirkpatrick’s robust evaluation model to gauge the effectiveness of your learning program.

With a commitment to ongoing improvement and evolution, and with a wealth of data collection tools at your disposal – from questionnaires and confidence-competence assessments to focus groups and observation checklists – we’ll capture the insights needed to optimise the learning experience.

The evaluation data will bring the ADDIE Model full circle, enriching the Analyse phase with invaluable insights.

Why this course?

Flexible learning - choose your time, place and pace

Dive into studies on your terms – learn whenever and wherever suits you best. Speed up or slow down your learning journey to match your personal goals.

Real world practice

Navigate through the instructional design process, creating your own program and materials, perfect for enhancing your portfolio.

Tailored coaching from experts

Collaborate with our Senior Consultants for personalised guidance. They'll amplify your strengths and elevate your skills, offering detailed feedback at crucial stages of your program.

Uncover industry best practices

Delve into essential learning theories and design principles that shape instructional design. Gain vital consulting skills to manage projects effectively, engage with stakeholders, and deliver successful outcomes.

Practical tools at your fingertips

Use our comprehensive Instructional Design Toolkit. This collection of guides and templates is designed to assist you in creating, developing, and evaluating your learning programs.

Embrace cutting-edge learning technologies

Explore the latest technologies that are transforming the landscape of learning and education.

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What's in the Instructional Design ADDIE Toolkit?

  • Learning needs analysis (LNA) discovery session in Miro: Before writing your learning needs analysis, you need to run a process of discovery to inform this document. We have created a Miro Board with interactive activities you can use to collaborate with your stakeholders and subject matter experts to understand needs and gather data.
  • Learning needs analysis (LNA) template (abridged): Template to conduct a learning needs analysis directly, aligned with the methodology introduced in the LNA guide.
    There are two versions – an abridged version for smaller projects and an extended version for large-scale projects and complex learning needs.
  • Learning needs analysis (LNA) guide (abridged)
    ‘How to’ guide for conducting a learning needs analysis, using the LNA template (abridged).
  • Learning needs analysis (LNA) template (extended)
    Template to conduct a learning needs analysis, directly aligned with the methodology introduced in the LNA guide.
    There are two versions – an abridged version for smaller projects and an extended version for large-scale projects and complex learning needs.
  • Learning needs analysis (LNA) guide (abridged)
    ‘How to’ guide for conducting a learning needs analysis, using LNA template (extended).
  • Learning needs analysis (LNA) validation tool
    A guide to support instructional designers in validating identified needs.

  • Learning architecture template
    Template to summarise the findings from the learning needs analysis (LNA), illustrate the recommended solution and outline the next steps.
  • High level design (HLD) template
    Template to create a ‘map’ of the design and development requirements, to enable and implement the learning strategy.
    Includes a template for developing an evaluation approach to determine the effectiveness of the program.
  • High level design (HLD) eLearning template in Rise 360
    High level design template in Rise 360 to help you create a skeleton for an eLearning solution.
  • High level design (HLD) microlearning template in Rise 360
    High level design template in Rise 360 to help you create a skeleton for a microlearning solution.
  • Rise 360 storyboard template
    Template to detail a Rise 360 eLearning program in Word format.
  • Video storyboard
    Template to visually plan and map out the sequence and elements of a video. Use it to provide a detailed blueprint of the video’s narrative, visual elements and audio, ensuring the production team has a clear vision to follow.
  • Quick reference guide: Learning outcomes
    A quick reference guide on using Bloom’s revised Taxonomy to craft clear, measurable learning outcomes, ensuring learners achieve targeted cognitive levels.
  • Quick reference guide: eLearning tips
    A quick reference guide on how to create impactful, accessible eLearning programs.
  • Activity cards: Sample pack for face-to-face delivery
    A selection of activity cards for face-to-face delivery from our activity cards pack.
  • Activity cards: Sample pack for virtual delivery
    A selection of activity cards for virtual delivery from our activity cards pack.

  • Facilitator guide template
    Facilitator guide template, including an overview of the program and detailed session plan.
    Includes a worked example extract.
  • Learner guide template
    Learner guide template, including learning activities and key content.
  • Assessment book template
    Assessment book template to develop relevant and effective assessment questions/tasks to evaluate participant learning against learning outcomes.
  • PowerPoint presentation template
    PowerPoint presentation template to summarise key learning and discussion points, visuals, and video links.
  • Job aid template
    Job aid templates (or Quick Reference Guide) to summarise key information for participants to readily reference on the job.
    Includes worked examples.
  • Thinking aloud testing template
    Template to capture key stakeholders (identified as reviewers and approvers) feedback on changes required to the learning materials developed.
  • Empathy map
    Template used to step into the learner’s shoes and see the design from their perspective.
  • Leader kit template
    Template to provide leaders with an overview of the program, as well as key discussion points and tips on ways they can assist their people to apply their developing knowledge, skills, and behaviours on the job.

  • Train the trainer template
    Template to up-skill trainers in the delivery of the learning program.
  • Trainer feedback tool: Evaluating learning materials
    Template used by instructional designers to provide constructive feedback to trainers on their delivery of learning materials for effective and engaging learning experiences.
  • Instructional designer feedback tool: Evaluating trainer delivery
    Template used by instructional designers to provide constructive feedback to trainers on their delivery of learning materials for effective and engaging learning experiences.
  • Learner feedback tool: Evaluating learning experience
    Template used by learners to capture feedback from the pilot phase of a program. Findings will be used to improve both delivery and development for a seamless learner experience.

  • Questionnaire templates
    Questionnaire templates, based on the evaluation approach established in the Design phase. Used to review the effectiveness of the learning program and materials.
  • Focus group session template
    Template to facilitate a review of the effectiveness of the learning program and materials with a focus group.
  • Observation checklist template
    Template to observe shifts in knowledge/skills on the job post-learning program.
  • Evaluation report template
    Simple evaluation report template to communicate key evaluation findings to business stakeholders.

What does an Instructional Designer do?

In the world of instructional design, you’re the bridge between “huh?” and “aha!” It’s your job to take complex ideas and turn them into engaging, easy-to-digest learning.

You’re the architect behind the scenes, analysing what learners need and crafting the experiences to meet them. Importantly, your role is about making the learner’s journey from A to B enjoyable and effective! Think online courses that keep yawns at bay, hands-on group activities that ignite both lightbulb moments and connection, or designing training videos that might just go viral in the office.

It’s a hands-on, constantly evolving career that keeps you on your toes, making learning better and more interesting for everyone.

You collaborate with experts and play with the latest tech. Every day is a mix of detective work, artistry, and a bit of tech wizardry.

In summary, Instructional Designers…

Instructional Designers might also be known as:

  • Learning Designer
  • Learning Experience Designer (LXD)
  • eLearning Developer
  • Learning and Development Specialist
  • Educational Designer

Instructional Designers might dabble in:

  • Graphic Design
  • Desktop Publishing
  • Video/Podcast Production

An exceptional Instructional Designer has the following skills…

Why become an Instructional Designer?

Work flexibility

Enjoy the liberty to work remotely or live the digital nomad life.

Adjustable hours

Tailor your work schedule to suit your personal life.

Diverse opportunities

Delve into freelancing or team collaborations for varied experiences.

Creative and analytical outlet

Use your creativity and problem-solving skills in crafting effective learning solutions.

Dynamic work environment

Each project brings new challenges and learning opportunities, keeping the monotony at bay.

Impactful contribution

Positively influence others' lives through education and growth.

Continuous learning

Stay engaged and growing in a role that evolves with you.

Booming sector

Step into an industry where your skills are highly sought after. Anticipated 21.7% job growth over the next five years (Seek, 2023).

Thinking of Instructional Design as a career?

Seek (2023) spills the beans: instructional designers are raking in between $90,000 to $120,000 on average, and the field’s set to grow by a whopping 21.7% in the next five years. Sounds like the perfect time to jump in, right?

With our solid, tried-and-true program, we’ll gear you up with all the skills you need and stick with you every step of the way as you transform into an instructional design pro.

Buy Now $3,980  $1,990 GST inc

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What People Say About Our Courses

This course represents tremendous value for money, it’s really practical and gave me all the tools I need – following the process outlined is a great way to engender the confidence and support of stakeholders

Hugo L&D Consultant

This ID course included great templates and tools beyond just standard learning materials. A fantastic and helpful head-start on creating a program for my organisation that I received lots of positive feedback on.

Joan L&D Manager

The toolkit is fantastic – more detailed and hands-on than I expected. Not just theory information.

Simon Operations Manager

Our Credentials

Our courses are practical and grounded in learning theory, drawing on the same effective methods and tools we use with our clients.

An alternative to a degree: Instructional design certificate program

Why would you consider IDA’s Instructional Design PLUS certificate program as an alternative to a
degree? Here’s why…

It’s flexible in time, place and duration.

When you sign up, you will be granted immediate access to the learning materials.

Afraid of commitment? You can complete the program at your own pace – you’ll have access for 12 months! This means you can get it over and done with quickly to fast-track your profession, or take your time and breaks without the worry of meeting deadlines.

The program is delivered online, meaning you can complete it wherever you are at any time.

Practice as you learn.

During the course, you will go through the instructional design process step-by-step to develop your very own program!

We support you throughout.

You’ll be teamed up with one of our Senior Consultants who will review your program at key stages to provide constructive, targeted feedback.

Personalised learning.

We identify your strengths and areas for improvement to help you develop your capabilities

We work around you.

We arrange one-on-one coaching sessions that suit your schedule.

Receive the practical tools you need.

You will receive our Instructional Design Toolkit –a set of guides and templates for each phase of our preferred instructional design model: the ADDIE Model. All the tools you need to design, develop and evaluate your own effective learning programs!

A range of options.

Our programs vary in delivery methods, including online learning, online learning with one-on-one coaching sessions and bespoke programs for your L&D team.

It’s affordable.

You will develop an understanding of all you need to be an exceptional ID and you will have lifetime access to templates with an included licence in perpetuity for an accessible price.

Quick Enquiry Form

Speak with our experienced instructional design team today!