Chapter 3. Instructional Analysis Analyzig The Learning Context

Page 1

The role of an instructional designer is to be a clever investigator.

The following characteristics are required from an Instructional Designer:

Examine character traits from users

Learning environments

perceived instruction

Instructional Task

All this has to be done before investing time on the learning solutions: such as, instructional systems, materials or learning environments.

Failure is certain if the research isn't done prior to the production of learning materials.

Front end analysis-

Instructional Context

Prospective Learners

Learning Tasks

Analyzing the Learning Context

Context includes not only the physical realities within which learning takes place but also the temporal and social environment that is part of the learning process. (Richey & Tessmer, 1995)

It is essential that the mind is placed in real world contexts! (Duffy, 2004, p.13)

The analysis of the learning context involves two goals:

1. The substantiation of a need for instruction to help learners reach their goals

2. The description of the learning environment in which instruction will be used

Page 2

Determining Instructional Needs

Evaluation

Needs Assessment

Strategy Design

Production

Implementation

Page 3

When should a needs assessment be conducted?

Condition A:

When there is a problem. When management isn't satisfied with turn-over, poor surveys, test scores

Condition B:

When there is something new learners need to know. New process, guidelines, policies etc.

Condition C:

When leadership wants to evaluate learning program to see if goals are congruent.