Learning Theories in Learning Design
In the ever-evolving field of instructional design, it’s tempting to focus on what’s fast, flashy, or “good enough” to meet deadlines. But when we zoom out, we know that effective learning design isn’t about delivering content—it’s about crafting experiences that create lasting change.
That’s why I created Learning Theories in Practice—a practical, research-informed guide designed for IDs and LXDs who want to bridge theory with real-world design. This guide draws from foundational and contemporary theories to help transform everything from compliance training to professional upskilling into meaningful learning.
Why Theory Still Matters—Even When Deadlines Don’t
Learning theories are more than academic frameworks; they’re roadmaps that help us understand how people truly learn. When used well, theories like Constructivism, Andragogy, and Cognitive Load Theory help us move beyond content delivery and into the realm of transfer, retention, and transformation.
Ertmer and Newby (2020) remind us that theory “provides the foundation for intelligent, informed decisions about design.” In other words, theory doesn’t slow us down—it sharpens our choices.
But here’s the challenge: many IDs are juggling multiple roles, managing stakeholder expectations, and building in a fast-paced environment. It can be hard to translate abstract theory into practical design.
That’s where this guide comes in.
What’s Inside the Guide
Learning Theories in Practice covers 14+ foundational theories—each broken down into:
A plain-language summary of the theory
Core principles and assumptions
Implementation strategies for learning design
Real-world examples and linked prototypes
Visuals and learner-centered design prompts
You’ll find both classics (e.g., Gagné’s Nine Events, Behaviorism, Constructivism) and modern frameworks (e.g., Connectivism, Mayer’s Multimedia Principles, Transactional Distance Theory). Each is framed not as a lecture, but as a launchpad for design.
Theory in Action: Examples at a Glance
Here are just a few examples from the guide:
Constructivism: Use “choose-your-path” branching scenarios to let learners explore messy, real-world decisions—especially helpful in compliance or leadership training.
Andragogy: Let adult learners choose their path or challenge level. Include reflection checkpoints to honor their experience and autonomy.
Mayer’s Multimedia Principles: Reduce cognitive load by pairing visuals with voiceover, not redundant captions. This is a game-changer for onboarding modules or software training.
Gamification: Use levels, badges, and instant feedback to create progression in even the most procedural content.
Self-Determination Theory: Design learning that nurtures autonomy, builds competence, and fosters connection—especially in hybrid or remote settings.
Each section is written with a designer’s lens—not a theorist’s—because theory is only useful when it lives in design decisions.
Who Is This For?
This guide is for any learning professional who’s ever asked:
“How do I make this topic less boring?”
“How can I make learning stick—not just pass the quiz?”
“How do I bring more intentionality into my design?”
Whether you’re a new ID building your design toolkit or a senior LXD looking to refresh your strategy, this guide supports the thoughtful, theory-driven work that helps learners thrive.
Access the Resource
📂 Need an accessible Word version? Access it here!
Final Thoughts
As learning designers, we hold the power to design not just what people learn, but how they feel about learning. When we root our work in learning theory, we create experiences that go beyond content—they build confidence, clarity, and capability.
Let’s keep designing with intention, creativity, and care.
References
Ertmer, P. A., & Newby, T. J. (2020). Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism: Comparing critical features from an instructional design perspective. Performance Improvement Quarterly, 33(1), 43–71.
Mayer, R. E. (2009). Multimedia Learning (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.
Siemens, G. (2005). Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age. International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning.
Kolb, D. A. (1984). Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development. Prentice Hall.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2020). Self-Determination Theory: Basic Psychological Needs in Motivation, Development, and Wellness. Guilford Press.
Thank you for joining me today! Let’s keep learning altogether, as lifelong #LearningMatters.
Best,
Laura Lawson
LearningMatters, LLC
Instructional Designer
