1. Communication Methods in Instruction
What it is:
This refers to the ways teachers and learners exchange information, ideas, and feedback in the teaching–learning process.
What it covers:
- Verbal methods: lectures, discussions, storytelling.
- Non-verbal methods: visuals, body language, symbols, and cues.
- Written methods: textbooks, handouts, online content.
- Digital/Media methods: video, audio, multimedia, online forums.
- Interactive methods: Q&A sessions, collaborative tasks, peer-to-peer learning.
It emphasizes how communication shapes understanding, motivation, and learner engagement.
2. Problems in Instructional Design for Computers
What it is:
Challenges faced when creating educational programs, e-learning platforms, or computer-assisted instruction.
What it covers:
- Technical issues: software compatibility, usability, and accessibility.
- Design complexity: making interfaces user-friendly while still pedagogically sound.
- Learner variability: different digital skills, learning styles, and access to devices.
- Content adaptation: ensuring traditional content works effectively in digital form.
- Feedback & assessment: providing timely, meaningful evaluation via computers.
- Costs & resources: high expenses for development and maintenance.
3. Distance Learning Concepts and Configurations
What it is:
Theories, structures, and models of learning when teachers and learners are geographically separated.
What it covers:
- Key concepts: flexibility, learner autonomy, and independent study.
- Modes: synchronous (real-time, e.g., Zoom classes) vs. asynchronous (recorded lectures, forums).
- Configurations:
- Correspondence-based (printed materials, postal delivery).
- Broadcast-based (radio, TV, educational programming).
- Online/e-learning (LMS, MOOCs, virtual classrooms).
- Blended/hybrid (mix of face-to-face + online).
- Support systems: tutoring, peer groups, digital libraries.
4. Classroom Technology Integration
What it is:
The effective use of digital tools and resources within face-to-face or blended classrooms.
What it covers:
- Tools: smartboards, projectors, tablets, educational apps, VR/AR.
- Approaches:
- Substitution: tech replaces traditional methods (e.g., e-books for textbooks).
- Augmentation: adds functionality (e.g., interactive quizzes).
- Modification: redesigns tasks (e.g., group collaboration on Google Docs).
- Redefinition: creates new learning experiences not possible before (e.g., virtual labs, global collaboration).
- Challenges: teacher training, infrastructure, balancing screen time, cost.
5. Foundations of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment
What it is:
The basic principles that guide what is taught (curriculum), how it is taught (instruction), and how learning is measured (assessment).
What it covers:
- Curriculum: learning goals, content sequencing, standards alignment.
- Instruction: strategies, methods, pedagogy, and differentiation.
- Assessment: formative (ongoing feedback) vs. summative (end-of-unit exams).
- Alignment: ensuring objectives, instruction, and assessments fit together.
- Theories of learning: behaviorism, constructivism, cognitivism applied in teaching.
6. Theories & Models of Instructional Systems Design (ISD)
What it is:
Structured approaches and frameworks for systematically designing effective learning experiences.
What it covers:
- Classic models:
- ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation).
- Dick & Carey Model (systematic approach to instructional planning).
- Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction (step-by-step delivery process).
- Modern models: Agile, SAM (Successive Approximation Model).
- Principles: needs assessment, learner analysis, objective-setting, instructional strategies, evaluation.
- Application: e-learning design, corporate training, academic program development.
