Instructional Design

Applies current and innovative adult learning and instructional design theories and techniques to analyze, design, develop, implement, evaluate, and modify learning programs.

Key Behaviors
  • Conducts high value/low burden needs assessments to determine desired outcome(s), learning gaps, and potential interventions.
  • Establishes learning objectives based on desired outcome(s).
  • Identifies program success indicators, such as favorable rating percentage, evidence of immediate learning, behavioral change on-the-job, and/or organizational impacts.
  • Defines and sequences instructional content and strategies (including communication around learning and development opportunities).
  • Designs innovative, interactive instruction that reflects an understanding of the diversity of learners, using a variety of existing and emerging technologies such as e-learning, virtual training, and social media.
  • Oversees the effective implementation of instructional products and programs, including change implementation strategies and processes.
  • Benchmarks and employs best practices in adult learning models, approaches and trends to develop new programs and enhance current curricula.
  • Benchmarks and employs best practices in adult learning models, approaches and trends to develop new programs and enhance current curricula.
  • Identifies program success indicators, such as favorable rating percentage, evidence of immediate learning, behavioral change on-the-job, and/or organizational impacts.
  • Evaluates and assesses instruction and its impact based on previously defined success indicators; makes updates and revisions to programs as needed.
  • Identifies target population of learners.
  • Adheres to theories of adult learning, education, and curriculum design.

Developmental opportunities for this competency are available from the NIH Training Center.