Part 1: Crucial Learning

These two learning options provide you with ways to learn the ID methodology, lingo, and skill set. While there is a lot of cross over between teaching and ID, ID uses different terminology for many concepts, and there are some components within these lessons that are unique to the ID role. These two options are great for individuals who are motivated self learners, who like to do their own research, and are low cost or free options. According to ATD, only 46% of ID's have a degree in instructional design, and only 16% have completed a certification program, so it is possible to be an ID without those things as long as you have the required knowledge and background, and you can show your skill set with a portfolio of work. 

If you are looking for a more formal learning program, check out the ID Certification Programs section in the resources tab.

**PRO TIP**: Any time a term is used, and you don't know what it means/it's not explained, google it! I recommend keeping an ID vocabulary cheat sheet for you to reference. 

Option 1: LinkedIn Learning (Recommended) 

If you click HERE, it will bring up a list of courses that can be found on LinkedIn learning-while not a comprehensive list, this is a GREAT starting point. You can get a 1 month free trial of LinkedIn Learning (plenty of time to finish the "Critical Learning"), and from there you can decided to pay $30 a month for the continued service for as long as you need it. 

Even though you have to pay after the first month, I highly recommend this option for two main reasons:

Option 2: YouTube and Other Media Sources 

Below you will find a compilation of learning resources. I do recommend just going down the list, but it's really up to you! You should also explore free webinars on LinkedIn, as well as explore the resources section of this site in addition to your own research.

Instructional Design Models

At the core of instructional design, there are what are known as "Instructional Design Models". These models serve to provide a general framework in which you design your materials. 


This concept can be a little tricky, because just like 'the perfect lesson plan', an ID essentially uses these as a guideline, but then figures out what actually works for them (and their client) as a process they use to design. They "Frankenstein" them together, if you will.


Check out the videos on the left to learn more about the most popular ID models. For a more comprehensive list of ID models, check out this article.

Adult Learning Theories 

Odds are, most of those using this site primarily has experience with pedagogy (the instruction of children). Andragogy  (the instruction of adults) has 6 principles that you must know and understand, because there is a high probability an interviewer will ask if you are familiar with adult learning theory. 

While most of us have focused on pedagogy, we also probably have experience with adult learners during "train the trainer" events (this means, we have probably at some point or another led a workshop or professional development to help our coworkers with acquiring a new skill/honing an old one). THIS EXPERIENCE COUNTS! Be sure to include it when asked if, and describe how you integrated the adult learning principles from this video during that session. 

Needs Analysis

In the teaching world, we call this a "pre-test". While it is very similar, there are definitely some gaps here you'll want to learn about, so you are prepared for a formal needs analysis in a corporate setting. 

Task Assessment

Following a needs/gap analysis, you'll want to perform a task analysis to scaffold large scale objectives into specific learning objectives that need to be met in order to address the knowledge/skill gap. 


For more on task analysis, check out this article. 


Working With SMEs

In order to perform a task analysis, most times you will need to work with a Subject Matter Expert, or SME.