Foundations of Instructional Design – Online Course

Build a strong foundation in instructional design and learn the principles, models, and learning theories behind effective learning experiences.

Whether you’re designing an online course, corporate training program, or classroom learning experience, understanding the fundamentals of instructional design is the first step toward creating learning that truly works.

Foundations of Instructional Design introduces the essential concepts, frameworks, and learning theories that guide effective instructional design. You’ll explore what instructional design is, why it matters, and how leading models—including the ADDIE model, SAM, Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction, Backward Design, and others—support the development of engaging learning experiences. The course also examines key learning theories such as behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism, helping you understand how people learn and how to apply these principles when designing instruction.

By the end of this course, you’ll have a practical understanding of the instructional design process and the confidence to begin designing learner-centered educational experiences using proven, research-informed approaches.