EDID6503 - Instructional Design Theories, Models & Strategies

Reflection & Artefacts

Reflection # 1

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Jasper (2006) suggested that, reflective practice can be expressed in the following formula:

“Experience + reflection + learning → action / change in behaviour”.

 

Preparing for and completing this assignment was extremely challenging. It started with researching the different instructional models and theories that existed and was not on Wikipedia. Now that was difficult! At one point I was wondering if it was at all possible to find such a model or theory. I was of the view that if it existed, it would have already been on Wikipedia. After a long search and several submissions of theories and models, I found the Successive Approximation Model (SAM). While I waited for approval, I researched how to write an article for Wikipedia. I created my Wikipedia account and started familiarizing myself with Wikipedia. I began my article in the sandbox and started gathering information on SAM. Finally, approval for my model was granted and I began writing.  Even though the assignment was challenging, the learning experience was unbelievable, in that, I researched numerous instructional design models and became somewhat knowledgeable of how to write an article on Wikipedia. I also learned a lot about SAM and its contribution to the field of Instructional Design.

 

 

Reflection # 2

 

Reflective practice is a widely effective technique that is used to promote learning. It is based on the notion that individuals have experiences which inform how they behave and aids in identifying the limits of their knowledge, skills and learning. Individuals are expected to learn from past experiences, and most do. Thus, the main idea behind reflective practice is to make a habit or routine around one’s experiences and making an effort to learn from it. Moon (1999: p. 23) offers a tentative definition for reflection. She states that reflection is, “… a form of mental processing with a purpose and or anticipated outcome that is applied to relatively complex or unstructured ideas for which there is not an obvious solution”.

 

The assignment was challenging, but enjoyable at the same time. Creating an instructional model was time-consuming and required much research, reading and application. It required identifying existing instructional models that are significant in the field, building on what already exists, and making the necessary adjustments to meet the required need. I must say that this exercise has caused me to conduct an assessment of the instructional models and strategies that were being used within my organization; and has opened my eyes to some of the existing instructional or learning deficiencies. The exercise has motivated and encouraged me to complete this programme, so that I can be a part of the change process, and bring some meaningful corrective measures to the present system in an effort to help my organization become a learning organization.

 

Reflection # 3

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The task of incorporating the work of five individuals was challenging, especially when the team was asked to merge five instructional models of different work environments into one instructional model. Despite the many personal and work-related challenges that we faced as individuals, each member has managed to contribute meaningfully to the assignment. Time management and dedication were crucial for an assignment like this and required careful planning in order to perform my responsibilities as a team member. In assessing the work of my team members, I found that there were many similarities and a few differences in the instructional strategies used, despite the different working environments. This was encouraging to know that our models actually have things in common, which was definitely an advantage for the development of the new model. I have found my team to be quite an understanding, hardworking, responsible and motivating bunch. There were times when we all became disheartened, but we were always there for each other, prodding and pulling each other through the struggles. This group project was evidence that ‘team work, makes the dream work’.

 

Reflection # 4

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My experience as an online learner started in 2006, hence, maneuvering the learning environment was fairly easy for me. However, my experience as an online student in the field of Instructional Design and Technology was new in every way. The many learning theories, strategies, approaches and models have opened my eyes and have helped me to appreciate their relevance in the learning process. The many assignments, weekly discussions and learning activities have had me scratching my head and catching my breath, but have also exposed me to new skills such as how to create my own website using Weebly, how to create a concept map using Mindjet, Prezi and PowerPoint; how to create a Wikipedia page and how to create my own learning model.

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I have also learned how to assess my work environment learning models, approaches and strategies in order to improve it. The importance of assessing all the factors that are crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of a design in order to achieve the desired outcome has come home forcefully to me, for example, the right model, strategy or approach as well as the right media and technological tools that are required.

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References

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Jasper, M. (2006). Professional Development, Reflection and Decision-making. Oxford: Blackwell.

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Moon, J. (1999). Reflection in Learning and Professional Development. Kogan Page

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