Learning Design is both a concept and a process that involves planning, development and implementation of learning experiences.
It is a systematic approach to creating efficient instructional programs and materials that meet specific learning objectives.
Learning design ensures that teaching is targeted, engaging and adapted to the learners’ needs.
See The Cre8 Model for an example of a design process.
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The concept has evolved over time, but one of the most recognized contributors is M. David Merrill, who first presented it in the article “First Principles of Instruction” in Educational Technology Research and Development (2002) and later in the book of the same name.