Designing Instruction
Designing instruction involves intentionally planning learning experiences that help learners achieve the intended learning outcomes. Effective instructional design aligns learning outcomes, learning activities, and assessments to support meaningful and engaging learning.
Instructional design frameworks can help organize and structure learning experiences. There are many models, including ADDIE (analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate), integrated course design, and Gagné's nine events of instruction. However, the goal is not to rigidly follow a single model, but rather to use these approaches to guide thoughtful and aligned course design.
Planning Instruction
Effective instruction considers what happens before, during, and after learning takes place. This structure can help you plan purposeful learning experiences that are aligned, organized, and supportive.
Before Learning
Before instruction begins, consider what learners need to be prepared for the learning experience.
- Who are your learners?
- What are learners expected to know or be able to do?
- How does this lesson connect to broader course learning outcomes?
- What prior knowledge or skills are required?
- What barriers or challenges might learners encounter?
During Learning
During instruction, consider how learners will engage with content, participate, and practice their learning.
- How will key concepts be introduced or explained?
- Where can learners apply or practice what they are learning?
- How will learners interact with the content, instructor, or peers?
- What examples, scenarios, or activities will support understanding?
- How will you check understanding throughout the lesson?
After Learning
After instruction, consider how learners will consolidate, reflect on, and extend their learning.
- How will learners review or summarize key ideas?
- What opportunities will learners have to reflect?
- How will learners receive or use feedback?
- How does this learning connect to future lessons or assessments?
- What can you adjust or improve for next time?
Tips for Designing Instruction
- Align instruction with learning outcomes and assessments
- Break complex concepts into manageable parts
- Build opportunities for practice and feedback
- Sequence learning from foundational to more complex tasks
- Provide clear instructions and expectations
- Encourage active participation and reflection
- Design learning experiences with accessibility and flexibility in mind
References
Northern Illinois University Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. (2020). Gagné’s nine events of instruction. In Instructional guide for university faculty and teaching assistants. Retrieved from https://www.niu.edu/citl/resources/guides/instructional-guide