First Principles of Instruction

M. David Merrill reviewed instructional design theories to identify common principles. He devised the following five principles.

1. Learning is promoted when learners are engaged in solving real-world problems.
2. Learning is promoted when existing knowledge is activated as a foundation for new knowledge.
3. Learning is promoted when new knowledge is demonstrated to the learner.
4. Learning is promoted when new knowledge is applied by the learner.
5. Learning is promoted when new knowledge is integrated into the learner’s world.

First Principles of Instruction by M. David Merrill

The American Psychological Association has developed the Learner-centered Principles. The most important principle is to create a positive climate and positive relationships.

Click on the links below to learn more about instructional design.

• What is Instructional Design
• Understanding Instructional Design
• What Do Instructional Designers Do?
• What are the differences between Educational Design, Learning Design and Instructional Design?
• First Principles of Instruction
• The Instructional Design Method
• Learning Science
• Academic Articles on Instructional design here.
• Read our latest blog articles here.

Instructional Design Australia (IDA) draws on the ADDIE model of Instructional Design when delivering its learning design services to clients across Australia.  Watch the video below to learn more on how IDA apply the ADDIE model.