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.

Encoding

The process of converting sensory input into a form that can be stored in memory.
view

Engagement Theory

Engagement Theory is a framework for learning that emphasises meaningful interaction, collaboration, and active participation to enhance motivation and knowledge retention. It is based on the idea that learners are more engaged when they work on authentic, real-world projects, often in teams, using technology to support communication and problem-solving. The theory is commonly applied in digital learning environments and project-based education.
view

Episodic Memory

The ability to recall specific events or episodes from one’s past.
view

E-Portfolios

Digital collections of learners' work and achievements, often used to demonstrate skills.
view

ePortfolio Tools

Digital platforms where learners can store and showcase their work and achievements.
view

Ethical Decision-Making

Training that focuses on helping professionals navigate moral and ethical dilemmas in their work.
view

Ethics Training

Programs focused on ensuring employees understand and uphold ethical standards in their work.
view

Evaluation of Learning Transfer

Assessing how well learners apply the skills and knowledge gained from the course to their real-world roles.
view

Evaluation Strategy

Developing methods for assessing both learner performance and the effectiveness of the instructional design.
view

Executive Function

A set of cognitive skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control.
view

Expectancy-Value Theory

Learners are motivated to engage in tasks if they expect success and value the outcome.
view

Experiential Learning

Learning is a process whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience (Kolb).
view

Experiential Learning by Kolb

David Kolb’s model focuses on learning through experiences. The cycle includes concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation.
view

Explicit Learning

Explicit learning is a structured, conscious process where learners intentionally acquire knowledge or skills through direct instruction, practice, and feedback. It typically involves clear explanations, step-by-step guidance, and predefined learning objectives, making it common in formal education and training settings. Examples include studying grammar rules, following a math tutorial, or completing a guided e-learning module.
view

Extrinsic Motivation

Engaging in a task due to external rewards or pressures.
view

Facilitation Planning

Preparing instructors or facilitators to deliver live or blended learning sessions.
view

Feedback Culture

Encouraging open, constructive feedback as part of the professional development process.
view

Final Handover

Delivering the finished course materials, assets, and documentation to the client or organisation.
view

Final QA (Quality Assurance)

Conducting a thorough review of the entire course to identify and fix any issues before final delivery.
view

Flexible Assessments

Offering a variety of assessment types to cater to different learning needs.
view

Flow Theory

Optimal learning occurs when an individual is fully immersed and focused on an activity, leading to 'flow' state.
view

Formative Evaluation

Ongoing evaluation conducted during the development phase to refine the content and approach.
view

Formative Feedback

Ongoing feedback provided during the learning process to improve content understanding.
view

Four-Component Instructional Design (4CID) Model

This model focuses on teaching complex skills and is built around four components: Learning tasks, Supportive information, Just-in-time information, and Part-task practice.
view

Freelance and Gig Economy Skills

Training aimed at individuals working in short-term, freelance, or contract positions.
view

Inbox inspiration

Receive the weekly Design for Learning newsletter to get the latest blog posts and instructional design strategies delivered for free via email.
We respect your data (find out more).
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Want to use
engaging learning activities
in your next learning design?

We help you structure learning activities, align with learning outcomes and collaborate with subject experts to create learning experiences in any format and for any platform.