This book examines the theoretical basis of one of the functional layers—the message layer—of an architectural theory of instructional design. The architectural theory (Gibbons, 2003; Gibbons & Rogers, 2009; Gibbons, 2014) identifies seven functions carried out during instruction that correspond with designable strata, or layers. The architectural theory proposes that for each layer there exists a specialized body of design languages, constructs, questions, tools, practices, processes, a professional community, and most especially, bodies of design theory. It also proposes that design knowledge from other design fields, many of which approach design from the same functional perspective, can be appropriated for the further development of knowledge within the instructional technology field. A robust literature from disparate fields supplies relevant theory for message layer design. This book builds the case for validation of the message layer by bringing together work from instructional theory, conversation theory, research in the learning sciences, intelligent tutoring system research, and K-12 education. Within this literature, the authors demonstrate the existence of the message as a structural abstraction: an independently designable entity. They trace the development of the message construct historically, showing that it has remained remarkably stable over time, independent of changing psychological, educational, and technological conventions.

This book examines the theoretical basis of one of the functional layers—the message layer—of an architectural theory of instructional design. The architectural theory (Gibbons, 2003; Gibbons & Rogers, 2009; Gibbons, 2014) identifies seven functions carried out during instruction that correspond with designable strata, or layers. The architectural theory proposes that for each layer there exists a specialized body of design languages, constructs, questions, tools, practices, processes, a professional community, and most especially, bodies of design theory. It also proposes that design knowledge from other design fields, many of which approach design from the same functional perspective, can be appropriated for the further development of knowledge within the instructional technology field. A robust literature from disparate fields supplies relevant theory for message layer design. This book builds the case for validation of the message layer by bringing together work from instructional theory, conversation theory, research in the learning sciences, intelligent tutoring system research, and K-12 education. Within this literature, the authors demonstrate the existence of the message as a structural abstraction: an independently designable entity. They trace the development of the message construct historically, showing that it has remained remarkably stable over time, independent of changing psychological, educational, and technological conventions.

Merging the Instructional Design Process with Learner-Centered Theory brings together the innovations of two previously divided processes — learning design strategies/theories and instructional systems development — into a new introductory textbook. Using a holistic rather than fragmented approach that includes top-level, mid-level, and lower-level design, this book provides guidance for major topics such as non-instructional interventions, just-in-time analysis, rapid-prototype approaches, and learner-centered, project-based, anytime-anywhere instruction. Informed by the authors’ considerable experience and leadership throughout dramatic shifts in today’s learning landscape, this book offers the next generation of instructional designers a fresh perspective that synthesizes and pushes beyond the basics of design and development.

Winner of the 2014 AECT Design & Development Outstanding Book Award An Architectural Approach to Instructional Design is organized around a groundbreaking new way of conceptualizing instructional design practice. Both practical and theoretically sound, this approach is drawn from current international trends in architectural, digital, and industrial design, and focuses on the structural and functional properties of the artifact being designed rather than the processes used to design it. Harmonious with existing systematic design models, the architectural approach expands the scope of design discourse by introducing new depth into the conversation and merging current knowledge with proven systematic techniques. An architectural approach is the natural result of increasing technological complexity and escalating user expectations. As the complexity of design problems increases, specialties evolve their own design languages, theories, processes, tools, literature, organizations, and standards. An Architectural Approach to Instructional Design describes the implications for theory and practice, providing a powerful and commercially relevant introduction for all students of instructional design.

Designing for technology enhanced learning (TEL) is often a demanding process. It involves creating challenging learning tasks, making sure that students have access to the right tools and resources, and ensuring there are appropriate opportunities for them to learn with and from each other. This book introduces the use of design patterns and pattern languages as ways of capturing and sharing TEL design knowledge. The editors have assembled a team of authors who have pioneered research and development in this rapidly expanding field.

​This book is the result of a research symposium sponsored by the Association for Educational Communications and Technology [AECT]. The fifteen chapters were developed by leaders in the field and represent the most updated and cutting edge methodology in the areas of instructional design and instructional technology. The broad concepts of design, design thinking, the design process, and the design studio, are identified and they form the framework of the book. This book advocates the conscious adoption of a mindset of design thinking, such as that evident in a range of divergent professions including business, government, and medicine. At its core is a focus on “planning, inventing, making, and doing.” (Cross, 1982), all of which are of value to the field of educational technology. Additionally, the book endeavors to develop a deep understanding of the design process in the reader. It is a critical skill, often drawing from other traditional design fields. An examination of the design process as practiced, of new models for design, and of ways to connect theory to the development of educational products are all fully explored with the goal of providing guidance for emerging instructional designers and deepening the practice of more advanced practitioners. Finally, as a large number of leading schools of instructional design have adopted the studio form of education for their professional programs, we include this emerging topic in the book as a practical and focused guide for readers at all levels.

"A series of well argued but surprisingly entertaining articles go far to set the very foundations ofthe field of digital game based learning. This book is absolutely essential reading for anyone interested in games and learning and will be for years to come." - James Paul Gee, Mary Lou Fulton Presidential Professor of Literacy Studies, Arizona State University