Training Skills

Popular Learning Models




What Are Learning Models?

  • Learning models are frameworks or theories that explain how people acquire, process, and retain knowledge.
  • These models guide the creation of effective instructional strategies, ensuring content is tailored to how learners best absorb information.

Popular Learning Models

1. ADDIE Model

  • What It Is: A step-by-step framework for instructional design.
  • Phases:
  • Analyze: Understand learner needs and define learning objectives.
  • Design: Create the course structure, content, and activities.
  • Develop: Build the course using authoring tools.
  • Implement: Deliver the course to learners via LMS or other platforms.
  • Evaluate: Gather feedback and assess course effectiveness.
  • Best For: Systematic course development for eLearning or instructor-led training.
  • Key Benefit: Ensures thorough planning and continuous improvement.

2. Bloom’s Taxonomy

  • What It Is: A hierarchical model for learning objectives, categorized by levels of cognitive complexity.
  • Levels (Cognitive Domain):
  • Remember: Recall basic facts (e.g., "What is SCORM?").
  • Understand: Explain ideas (e.g., "Describe the purpose of SCORM compliance.").
  • Apply: Use knowledge in new situations (e.g., "Develop a SCORM-compliant course.").
  • Analyze: Break information into parts (e.g., "Compare SCORM and xAPI.").
  • Evaluate: Justify decisions (e.g., "Assess the pros and cons of SCORM.").
  • Create: Build new solutions (e.g., "Design an innovative LMS feature.").
  • Best For: Designing objectives and assessments in a structured, measurable way.

3. Kolb’s Experiential Learning Model

  • What It Is: A cycle that emphasizes learning through experience.
  • Phases:
  • Concrete Experience: Hands-on activity or problem-solving.
  • Reflective Observation: Analyze and reflect on the experience.
  • Abstract Conceptualization: Draw lessons or concepts from the reflection.
  • Active Experimentation: Apply the learning to a new situation.
  • Best For: Practical training, such as workshops, simulations, or team activities.?

4. Gagne’s Nine Events of Instruction

  • What It Is: A step-by-step process for effective instruction.??
  • Steps:
  • Gain Attention: Use visuals or an engaging question to hook learners.
  • Inform Objectives: Explain what learners will achieve.
  • Stimulate Recall: Connect new knowledge to prior experiences.
  • Present Content: Deliver clear, relevant material.
  • Provide Learning Guidance: Use examples and demonstrations.
  • Elicit Performance: Encourage practice or participation.?
  • Provide Feedback: Offer constructive insights.
  • Assess Performance: Test knowledge with quizzes or tasks.
  • Enhance Retention/Transfer: Summarize and reinforce key points.
  • Best For: Structuring lessons and eLearning modules.

5. SAM Model (Successive Approximation Model)

  • What It Is: An agile approach to instructional design, emphasizing rapid prototyping.
  • Phases:
  • Preparation: Define goals and collect information.
  • Iterative Design: Develop prototypes, test with learners, and revise.
  • Iterative Development: Build and improve the final course iteratively.
  • Best For: Fast-paced projects requiring flexibility and collaboration.

6. Constructivist Learning Model

  • What It Is: Learners build their own understanding through experiences and reflection.?
  • Key Principles:
  • Learning is active and exploratory.
  • Learners draw connections between new and prior knowledge.
  • Collaboration and real-world application are encouraged.
  • Best For: Scenarios, simulations, group discussions, and problem-based learning.

7. ARCS Model (Motivational Design)

  • What It Is: Focuses on designing courses to motivate learners.
  • Phases:
  • Attention: Capture learner interest using variety and novelty.
  • Relevance: Show how the content applies to their needs or goals.
  • Confidence: Provide opportunities for success to build self-efficacy.
  • Satisfaction: Reward progress and emphasize accomplishments.
  • Best For: Increasing engagement and motivation in training programs.

8. Merrill’s Principles of Instruction

  • What It Is: Focuses on task-based learning and practical application.??
  • Principles:
  • Task-Centered Learning: Start with real-world problems or tasks.
  • Activation: Connect new learning to prior experiences.
  • Demonstration: Show examples or models for learners to observe.
  • Application: Allow learners to practice what they’ve learned.?
  • Integration: Encourage learners to reflect and apply learning in real life.
  • Best For: Practical, skills-focused training programs.

9. Social Learning Theory (Bandura)

  • What It Is: Learning happens through observation, imitation, and collaboration.
  • Key Concepts:
  • Modeling: Learners observe and mimic others’ behavior.
  • Reinforcement: Positive outcomes encourage repeat behavior.
  • Social Interaction: Collaboration enhances understanding.
  • Best For: Team training, mentoring, and peer-based learning environments.

10. Cognitive Load Theory

  • What It Is: Focuses on managing the amount of information learners can process at one time.
  • Principles:
  • Avoid overloading learners with too much content.
  • Use visuals and chunk information into manageable sections.?
  • Best For: Designing courses that are simple, clear, and easy to follow.

Choosing the Right Learning Model

  • For Structured Design: ADDIE, SAM, or Gagne’s Nine Events.
  • For Practical Learning: Kolb, Merrill’s Principles, or Constructivism.
  • For Engagement: ARCS or Social Learning Theory.
  • For Corporate Training: Cognitive Load Theory, Merrill’s Principles, or SAM.

Tips for Applying Learning Models

  1. Combine models as needed to suit your audience and objectives.
  2. Keep learners’ needs and preferences at the center of your approach.
  3. Test and refine your approach with learner feedback and analytics.
  4. Balance theory with real-world application for effective learning.

If you liked this, consider supporting us by checking out Tiny Skills - 250+ Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy