In August of 2021, eLearning Industry posted an article on their blog about three “cutting-edge” instructional design trends that should not be considered trends, but permanent fixtures. You can find the post here.
Those three “trends” are:
- Presentation and Delivery
- Storytelling and Authenticity
- Engagement and Interaction
Technically, I think the author cheated a little by calling these three items trends. They are general categories not trends. The author then goes on to list several trends within those categories. But just because the topics themselves within those categories might change with time, that doesn’t mean that the categories themselves are going away, just that their content will evolve.
But that’s just my BA in English rearing its head. Semantics aside, there was some interesting items in the post.
According to the author, presentation has grown increasingly important for employers. In particular, mixed media content is a current focus. As are immersive experiences and compatibility with mobile devices. Accessibility is also increasingly important.
For the storytelling and authenticity topic, designers should focus on being concise and authentic. Designers should offer vivid imagery instead of relying on words alone. The author encourages designers to try to use real-life experiences whenever possible.
And finally, the author identifies gamification and experimental learning as important trends in category of engagement and interaction.
Many of the statements the author makes parallels what has been covered in my classes, although we are obviously able to go into more depth than brief blog post. However, this article would be a good jumping off point for someone interested in learning more about instructional design.
