History of Instructional Design: Interactive Timeline
Explore key moments in instructional design, learn about major theorists, and test your knowledge.
How to use: “Click on the dates to reveal details. In each pop-up, click the yellow button for more info. Finish by taking the quiz.
History of Instructional Design: Interactive Timeline
Explore key moments in the evolution of instructional design, from early learning theories to modern digital strategies. This timeline highlights influential thinkers, innovations, and practices that continue to shape effective learning today.
1956: Bloom’s Taxonomy
1994: Merrill’s First Principles
1990s–2000s: ADDIE
1993–2009: Kirkpatrick Model
Today: xAPI, microlearning
Four levels for evaluating training effectiveness from reaction to results.
A structured framework for designing, developing, and evaluating training.
A hierarchy of cognitive skills from basic recall to creative thinking.
A problem-centered approach to learning with real-world application.
Technology-driven learning including xAPI, microlearning, and AI-enhanced design.
Quick Check
Let’s see what you remember about instructional design history!
Key Takeaways
Bloom, Merrill, and other theorists shaped core instructional design models. Models like ADDIE and Kirkpatrick guide modern training evaluation. Today’s learning trends integrate technology, microlearning, and data tracking.
Merrill’s First Principles – 1994
Learning should be problem-centered. Activate prior knowledge before introducing new material. Apply and integrate skills for retention.
Kirkpatrick Model – 1993–2009
Four levels: Reaction, Learning, Behavior, Results. Focuses on measuring training effectiveness. Common in corporate L&D programs.
Bloom’s Taxonomy – 1956
Developed a hierarchy of six cognitive skills (Remember, Understand, Apply, Analyze, Evaluate, Create). Guides educators in structuring learning objectives. Widely used in K–12 and higher education.
ADDIE Model – 1990s–2000s
Five phases: Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate. Iterative approach to instructional design. Adaptable for eLearning and classroom settings.
Today’s Trends – xAPI & Microlearning
xAPI tracks detailed learning activity data. Microlearning delivers short, focused bursts of content. AI-enhanced design personalizes learning.
History of Instructional Design: Interactive Timeline
Randi Campbell
Created on August 11, 2025
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Transcript
History of Instructional Design: Interactive Timeline
Explore key moments in instructional design, learn about major theorists, and test your knowledge.
How to use: “Click on the dates to reveal details. In each pop-up, click the yellow button for more info. Finish by taking the quiz.
History of Instructional Design: Interactive Timeline
Explore key moments in the evolution of instructional design, from early learning theories to modern digital strategies. This timeline highlights influential thinkers, innovations, and practices that continue to shape effective learning today.
1956: Bloom’s Taxonomy
1994: Merrill’s First Principles
1990s–2000s: ADDIE
1993–2009: Kirkpatrick Model
Today: xAPI, microlearning
Four levels for evaluating training effectiveness from reaction to results.
A structured framework for designing, developing, and evaluating training.
A hierarchy of cognitive skills from basic recall to creative thinking.
A problem-centered approach to learning with real-world application.
Technology-driven learning including xAPI, microlearning, and AI-enhanced design.
Quick Check
Let’s see what you remember about instructional design history!
Key Takeaways
Bloom, Merrill, and other theorists shaped core instructional design models. Models like ADDIE and Kirkpatrick guide modern training evaluation. Today’s learning trends integrate technology, microlearning, and data tracking.
Merrill’s First Principles – 1994
Learning should be problem-centered. Activate prior knowledge before introducing new material. Apply and integrate skills for retention.
Kirkpatrick Model – 1993–2009
Four levels: Reaction, Learning, Behavior, Results. Focuses on measuring training effectiveness. Common in corporate L&D programs.
Bloom’s Taxonomy – 1956
Developed a hierarchy of six cognitive skills (Remember, Understand, Apply, Analyze, Evaluate, Create). Guides educators in structuring learning objectives. Widely used in K–12 and higher education.
ADDIE Model – 1990s–2000s
Five phases: Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate. Iterative approach to instructional design. Adaptable for eLearning and classroom settings.
Today’s Trends – xAPI & Microlearning
xAPI tracks detailed learning activity data. Microlearning delivers short, focused bursts of content. AI-enhanced design personalizes learning.