Instructional design is fundamental to enhancing learning and training across multiple sectors, such as education, public relations and business. The complex process of creating learning experiences relies heavily on the adept use of a variety of technological tools.
The online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Management with a concentration in Workplace Instructional Design program from Avila University equips future leaders with the skills to master these tools. The curriculum focuses on this important discipline, particularly in key courses such as Introduction to Instructional Design & Technology and Applied Instructional Design. Graduates are prepared to spearhead learning initiatives, creating and managing tailored educational programs that foster professional and personal growth within their organizations.
What Is Instructional Design?
According to Ardent, instructional design merges principles from education, behavioral psychology and communication to tailor training initiatives specifically suited to various groups of learners. This specialized focus ensures that each educational experience is profoundly impactful, enabling learners to grasp and retain learning concepts more effectively. It involves a deep understanding of how individuals learn and what tools, methodologies and technologies they can employ to modify behavior most effectively.
According to the Digital Learning Institute, instructional design is the backbone of comprehensive training strategies across learning environments — from schools and universities to corporate settings and public sector training programs. Utilizing a blend of best practices from several fields (including systems theory and creative writing), instructional designers develop sophisticated eLearning modules, dynamic workshops and practical job aids. Though often working behind the scenes in collaboration with subject matter experts, their work is critical in shaping the efficacy of educational programs.
According to a 2024 Devlin Peck Instructional Designer Salary Report, the average salary for instructional designers in corporate roles in the U.S. is $85,452. Self-employed instructional designers report an average income of $84,796, while the overall average salary for instructional designers across all sectors stands at $83,347. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 32,400 jobs in this field as of 2022.
Why Is Instructional Design Important?
Instructional design helps to drive positive outcomes for organizations, primarily due to its cost-effectiveness and results-driven nature, according to Ardent. By adopting a methodical approach to curriculum planning, instructional designers focus intently on identifying and addressing the specific training needs that yield the highest ROI. This strategic approach prevents wasteful spending on ineffective training and ensures that every dollar invested in education promotes meaningful behavior change.
Furthermore, instructional designers align learning objectives with overarching business goals, directly linking employee development and organizational success. These tailored, research-based solutions engage learners and produce tangible, beneficial outcomes. In effect, they cement the critical role of instructional design in organizational growth and improvement.
What Is Design Technology?
Design technology encompasses a wide array of tools that aid in creating and delivering educational content effectively. The Digital Learning Institute notes that these tools are essential for applying development models like ADDIE and developing eLearning experiences. This includes storyboard software, which helps map out the structure of eLearning courses before their development, and eLearning authoring software, which enables the creation of interactive courses, lessons and tutorials.
Presentation tools help craft engaging visual content, while learning management systems (LMS) allow for efficient delivery, tracking and reporting of worker or student performance in eLearning courses. Video editing tools are also necessary, as they enable designers to create and refine educational video content, adding a dynamic element to the learning experience.
The diversity of these tools reflects the broad landscape of instructional design technology. From authoring tools for online course creation to graphic and video tools that enhance content engagement, these technologies are integral to modern educational strategies. For example, mind mapping tools provide a visual method to organize and link ideas, ensuring a coherent flow in training sessions or courses. Similarly, project management tools are indispensable for overseeing large-scale training modules and maintaining oversight of progress.
How Is Technology Improving Instructional Design?
Technological advancements have significantly impacted instructional design by enhancing the creation and delivery of educational content. In the early stages, designers use teleconferencing software to collaborate with stakeholders. During development and implementation, a range of software tools help build and distribute interactive courses, incorporating multimedia and digital assessments to enrich learning.
Technology is also indispensable in evaluating courses, using data collection tools to assess effectiveness and inform improvements. Recent innovations such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are revolutionizing eLearning, offering immersive experiences that boost engagement and retention.
As the field of instructional design continues to evolve, technology continues to provide innovative methods for designing, implementing and evaluating educational experiences. Avila University’s online M.A. Management – Workplace Instructional Design program integrates fundamental instructional design principles with cutting-edge technologies, preparing students to apply instructional design theory, create effective and impactful learning outcomes and provide instructional design leadership in diverse environments.
Learn more about Avila University’s online Master of Arts in Management with a concentration in Workplace Instructional Design program.
