Instructional and Learning Design Terminology Explorer

Definitions and practical guidance for the phrases, terminology and acronyms used by Instructional Designers, Learning Designers and Learning Experience Designers.

Cognitive Psychology

The study of mental processes such as perception, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Cognitive Rehearsal

The process of mentally practicing a task before performing it.

Cognitive Resilience

The ability to recover from cognitive challenges or disruptions in the learning process.

Cognitivism

Learning is understood as a mental process of acquiring, storing, and recalling information.

Collaborative Instructional Design Model

This approach encourages learners to collaborate on learning activities. It often integrates team-based learning, peer assessments, and group problem-solving activities.

Collaborative Learning

Learning occurs when learners work together, sharing knowledge and ideas to solve problems.

Collaborative Learning Platforms

Online tools that facilitate group learning, discussion, and collaboration.

Collaborative Learning Tools

Software like Slack, Trello, or Padlet, which support teamwork and group activities.

Colour Contrast

Ensuring sufficient contrast between text and background for readability.

Competency Mapping

Identifying the competencies learners must develop and aligning them with course content.

Competency-Based Instructional Design (CBID)

CBID emphasizes creating instruction that helps learners achieve specific competencies or skills, often in professional or job-specific training contexts.

Competency-Based Learning

Learning is organised around mastering specific skills or competencies.

Compliance Check

Ensuring that the course content meets legal or industry regulations, such as GDPR or workplace safety laws.

Connectivism

Learning is a process of connecting specialised nodes or information sources across networks, heavily influenced by technology.

Constructive Alignment

Ensures that learning objectives, teaching methods, and assessment are aligned with one another.

Constructivism

Learners actively construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world, through experience and reflection.

Content Analysis

Identifying and organising the subject matter to be covered in the course.

Content Chunking

Breaking down content into smaller, manageable sections to improve comprehension and retention.

Content Curation

The process of gathering, organizing, and presenting relevant content to learners.

Content Curation Tools

Platforms or services that help instructors find, organise, and share relevant learning resources.

Content Delivery Network (CDN)

A network of servers used to deliver web content more efficiently and quickly to learners.

Content Development

Writing, designing, and creating the instructional materials, such as slides, videos, and texts.

Content Interoperability

Ensuring that learning content works across various systems and platforms, such as different LMSs.

Content Localisation

Adapting the course for different languages, cultures, or regions.

Content Management System (CMS)

A system used to manage the creation and modification of digital content.

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