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Using learning theories and instructional design principles

Whatever method is chosen to deliver the learning program, a large part of any strategy document must be centred on ensuring that all learners have the best possible opportunity to absorb the information being provided. This entails having a sound understanding of learning theories and principles, knowing how different people learn, as well as determining the best methods of providing information.

Research into how adults learn is ongoing and a great deal has been written about this subject. There are many different learning theories and principles—too many to discuss here in any detail. At the end of this chapter we have provided sources of additional reading should you wish to learn more about this subject.

When developing a learning strategy with its entailed learning programs, however, it is useful to have a basic understanding of some of the main theories, including those outlined in the video.

Each method has its place under the right circumstances. The theory you adopt for your learning strategy (if any) will depend on the audience at which it is aimed, and what is to be achieved.

Coupled with these theories you then also need to consider how they fit in with modern approaches to learning and design principles. For example the approach to adult learning is very different to that of teaching school-aged children and these differences form a vital component in designing learning programs.