Since I began my online course of study in Instructional Design (ID) and Technology I have been asked by most, “what is that?” I attempt to explain to my friends and colleagues what ID  is. However, after I finish with my definition of ID they respond with a unclear “OK”. So I am going to include a formal definition of ID that I found on the web at: http://www.instructionaldesigncentral.com/htm/IDC_instructionaldesigndefinitions.htm

What is Instructional Design?

What is instructional design? In short, instructional design is the systematic process by which instructional materials are designed, developed, and delivered. The terms instructional design, instructional technology, educational technology, curriculum design, and instructional systems design (ISD), are often used interchangeably. Below are a few instructional design definitions from various resources on instructional design, instructional technology, educational technology, curriculum design, and instructional systems design:

Definitions of Instructional Design?

“The philosophy, methodology, and approach used to deliver information. Some courseware aspects include question strategy, level of interaction, reinforcement, and branching complexity.” Source: www.neiu.edu

“Instructional design, also known as instructional systems design, is the analysis of learning needs and systematic development of instruction. Instructional designers often use Instructional technology as a method for developing instruction. Instructional design models typically specify a method, that if followed will facilitate the transfer of knowledge, skills and attitude to the recipient or acquirer of the instruction.” Source: www.wikipedia.org

“Instructional Design is the systematic development of instructional specifications using learning and instructional theory to ensure the quality of instruction. It is the entire process of analysis of learning needs and goals and the development of a delivery system to meet those needs. It includes development of instructional materials and activities; and tryout and evaluation of all instruction and learner activities.” Source: www.umich.edu

Definitions of Instructional Technology?

“The use of technology (computers, compact disc, interactive media, modem, satellite, teleconferencing, etc.) to support learning.” Source: www.neiu.edu

“Instructional technology was born as a military response to the problems of a labor shortage during WWII in the United States. There was a definitive need to fill the factories with skilled labor. Instructional technology provided a methodology for training in a systematic and efficient manner.”
Source: www.wikipedia.org

“Instructional technology is the systemic and systematic application of strategies and techniques derived from behavioral, cognitive, and constructivist theories to the solution of instructional problems. www.umich.edu

Definitions of Instructional Systems Design?

“A formal process for designing training, be it computer-based or traditional instructor-led training. The ISD process includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. Also known as System Approach to Training (SAT).” Source: www.neiu.edu

“Systematic guidelines instructional designers follow in order to create a workshop, a course, a curriculum, an instructional program, or a training session” Source: http://edutechwiki.unige.ch

– See more at: http://www.instructionaldesigncentral.com/htm/IDC_instructionaldesigndefinitions.htm#sthash.VJAyJbXc.dpuf