Brief History
Instructional Design has evolved over the decades, influenced by major events and technological shifts. Key movements are summarized here.
| Time Period | Movement | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Early 1900s to WWII | Visual and Audiovisual Instruction | The early 20th century saw visual aids like slides and films in schools. During WWII, audiovisual tools supported rapid training in military and industry. |
| 1950s-1960s | Programmed Instruction and Behavioral Objectives | Skinner and others advanced small steps, immediate feedback, and measurable objectives to improve instructional effectiveness. |
| 1970s | Systems Approach and ID Models | Models such as ADDIE emphasized analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation, with strong adoption in the military and higher education. |
| 1980s-1990s | Cognitive Psychology and Constructivism | Learner-centered approaches focused on memory, problem solving, authentic tasks, and broader performance improvement methods. |
| 2000s-Present | Digital Technologies and Online Learning | Online learning, AI, mobile, and AR expanded delivery. The COVID era highlighted the role of ID in remote learning and flexible, learner-centered approaches. |
Infographic illustrating the brief history of Instructional Design.
References - alphabetized
- Dick, W., and Carey, L. (1985). The Systematic Design of Instruction. Scott Foresman.
- Mager, R. F. (1962). Preparing Objectives for Programmed Instruction. Fearon Publishers.
- Reiser, R. A., and Dempsey, J. V. (2018). Trends and Issues in Instructional Design and Technology. Taylor and Francis.
- Saettler, P. (1990). The Evolution of American Educational Technology. Libraries Unlimited.
- Seaman, J., Allen, I. E., and Seaman, J. (2018). Grade Increase: Tracking Distance Education in the United States. Babson Survey Research Group.