My first course in my instructional design and technology master degree program challenged me to think more about the process behind instructional design and helped shape the way I view developing instructional materials. The most impactful part of the course was being introduced to the nine steps of the instructional design process. The first step is to identify the instructional problem. Understanding the learners' characteristics ensures instructions meet the learner's needs. Then, a task analysis determines what information needs to be included. After that, objectives are set, content is organized, instructional strategies are chosen, materials are designed and developed, and evaluation assesses whether the instruction met its goals. This course emphasized the importance of solid reasoning and using evidence-based practices in instructional design.
Throughout the course, I developed an instructional design plan for employee onboarding training in a sign shop. I chose to develop this training because I was inspired by my current position as a graphic designer working in a sign shop. I identified the need for instruction, conducted a thorough learner analysis, performed a detailed task analysis, sequenced objectives, and developed an instructional design plan.