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  • Instructional Design

Instructional Design Courses

Instructional design courses can help you learn curriculum development, assessment strategies, and learner engagement techniques. You can build skills in creating effective learning experiences, utilizing multimedia resources, and evaluating instructional effectiveness. Many courses introduce tools like Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, and learning management systems, which support the design and delivery of educational content.


Popular Instructional Design Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Instructional Design Foundations and Applications

    Skills you'll gain: Instructional and Curriculum Design, Needs Assessment, Instructional Design, Learning Theory, Diversity and Inclusion, Training and Development, Education and Training, Curriculum Development, Analysis

    4.1
    Rating, 4.1 out of 5 stars
    ·
    839 reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    An Introduction to Learning Experience Design (LXD)

    Skills you'll gain: Course Development, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Educational Materials, Multimedia, Instructional Design, Learning Theory, User Experience Design, Learning Management Systems, Design Thinking, Education Software and Technology, Professional Development, Brainstorming, Needs Assessment, Content Creation, Motivational Skills, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, User Centered Design, Prototyping, Design Strategies, Student-Centred Learning

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    108 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Learning Experience Design: Theories and Frameworks

    Skills you'll gain: Course Development, Instructional Design, Learning Theory, Brainstorming, Design Thinking, Needs Assessment, Motivational Skills, Prototyping, Student-Centred Learning, Creativity, Analysis, Communication

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    34 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Status: AI skills
    AI skills
    G

    Google

    Google UX Design

    Skills you'll gain: Responsive Web Design, Storyboarding, Wireframing, User Experience Design, UI/UX Research, Usability Testing, Information Architecture, Presentations, User Research, Figma (Design Software), Design Reviews, Persona (User Experience), Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, User Story, Data Ethics, User Centered Design, Usability, Mockups, Interviewing Skills, Professional Development

    Build toward a degree

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    96K reviews

    Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Generative AI as a Learning Design Partner

    Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, Responsible AI, Prompt Engineering, Education Software and Technology, ChatGPT, Instructional Design, LLM Application, Artificial Intelligence, Brainstorming, Needs Assessment, Data Ethics, Design Strategies, Content Creation, Creative Design, Emerging Technologies, Persona Development, Professional Development

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    70 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    M

    Macquarie University

    Online Learning Design for Educators

    Skills you'll gain: Video Production, Infographics, Course Development, Multimedia, Peer Review, Discussion Facilitation, Content Creation, Constructive Feedback, Instructional Design, Education Software and Technology, Design Thinking, Pedagogy, Media Production, Learning Management Systems, Teaching, Design, Collaborative Software, Planning, Virtual Environment, End User Training and Support

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    411 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    T

    The University of Edinburgh

    How to Create an Online Course

    Skills you'll gain: Educational Materials, Learning Strategies, Instructional Design, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Learning Management Systems, Web Content, Education Software and Technology, User Centered Design, Creative Thinking, Cultural Diversity

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    222 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Learning Experience Design: Orientation to the Profession

    Skills you'll gain: Instructional Design, Learning Theory, User Experience Design, Design Thinking, Education Software and Technology, Professional Development, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, User Centered Design, Collaboration, Emerging Technologies

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    71 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • C

    Coursera

    Create and Design Digital Products using Canva

    Skills you'll gain: Canva (Software), Design, Digital Design, Product Design, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Creative Design, Color Theory, Graphic Design, Intellectual Property, E-Commerce, Direct Selling, Digital Content, Digital Assets, Marketing, Marketing Materials

    4.4
    Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.3K reviews

    Advanced · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    G

    Google

    Foundations of User Experience (UX) Design

    Skills you'll gain: User Research, User Experience Design, Design Thinking, User Centered Design, Usability, Persona (User Experience), User Interface (UI), Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Wireframing, Prototyping, Sprint Retrospectives, Sprint Planning

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    75K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Status: AI skills
    AI skills
    A

    Adobe

    Adobe Graphic Designer: Design that Demands Attention

    Skills you'll gain: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Responsible AI, Logo Design, Generative AI, Graphic Design, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, Productivity Software, Visual Design, Digital Design, File Management, Process Design, Design Reviews, Prompt Engineering, Image Analysis, Presentations, Client Services, Content Creation, Branding, Storytelling

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.3K reviews

    Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California San Diego

    Interaction Design

    Skills you'll gain: Design Research, Interaction Design, User Experience Design, Statistical Analysis, Usability, Ideation, User Research, Graphic and Visual Design, User Interface (UI) Design, Experimentation, Prototyping, Human Centered Design, Usability Testing, Human Computer Interaction, A/B Testing, Human Factors, Collaborative Software, Telecommuting, R Programming, Storyboarding

    4.5
    Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
    ·
    4K reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Searches related to instructional design

instructional design foundations and applications
instructional and curriculum design
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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular instructional design courses

  • Instructional Design Foundations and Applications: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • An Introduction to Learning Experience Design (LXD): University of Michigan
  • Learning Experience Design: Theories and Frameworks: University of Michigan
  • Google UX Design: Google
  • Generative AI as a Learning Design Partner: University of Michigan
  • Online Learning Design for Educators: Macquarie University
  • How to Create an Online Course: The University of Edinburgh
  • Learning Experience Design: Orientation to the Profession: University of Michigan
  • Create and Design Digital Products using Canva: Coursera
  • Foundations of User Experience (UX) Design: Google

Skills you can learn in Business Essentials

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Frequently Asked Questions about Instructional Design

Instructional design is the systematic process of creating educational experiences that make the acquisition of knowledge and skills more efficient, effective, and engaging. It is important because it ensures that learning materials are tailored to meet the needs of diverse learners, facilitating better understanding and retention of information. By applying principles of learning theory, instructional designers can create resources that not only convey information but also motivate and engage learners, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes.‎

Careers in instructional design are diverse and can be found across various sectors, including education, corporate training, healthcare, and technology. Some common job titles include instructional designer, e-learning developer, training coordinator, and curriculum developer. These roles often involve collaborating with subject matter experts to create effective learning materials, developing online courses, and assessing the effectiveness of instructional programs. The demand for skilled instructional designers continues to grow as organizations increasingly recognize the value of effective training and development.‎

To succeed in instructional design, you should develop a range of skills. Key competencies include understanding learning theories and instructional strategies, proficiency in design software, and familiarity with e-learning development tools. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with stakeholders and presenting ideas clearly. Knowledge of assessment methods and data analysis can also enhance your ability to evaluate the effectiveness of instructional materials. Continuous learning and adaptability are crucial as technology and educational practices evolve.‎

There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in instructional design. One highly recommended option is the Instructional Design Foundations and Applications, which provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of instructional design. Other notable courses include Instructional Methods in Health Professions Education and Advanced Instructional Strategies in the Virtual Classroom, which focus on specific contexts and advanced techniques.‎

Yes. You can start learning instructional design on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many instructional design courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in instructional design, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

To learn instructional design, start by exploring foundational courses that cover key concepts and methodologies. Engage with practical projects to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios. Consider joining online communities or forums where you can connect with other learners and professionals in the field. Additionally, seek out opportunities for hands-on experience, such as internships or volunteer positions, to further develop your skills and build your portfolio.‎

Instructional design courses typically cover a variety of topics, including learning theories, instructional strategies, course development, assessment techniques, and the use of technology in education. You may also explore specific areas such as e-learning design, multimedia development, and user experience principles. These topics equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to create effective and engaging learning experiences tailored to diverse audiences.‎

For training and upskilling employees or the workforce, courses that focus on practical applications and real-world scenarios are particularly beneficial. The Instructional Design Foundations and Applications course is an excellent choice, as it provides a solid grounding in instructional design principles. Additionally, exploring specialized courses like Ubiquitous Learning and Instructional Technologies can enhance your understanding of how to integrate technology into training programs effectively.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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