how instructional design is informed by student learning theory

In this week’s discussion, we will examine how instructional design is informed by student learning theory. Select one motivational and one learning theory that was presented in NUR 660 and apply them to the instructional design process (if you have not yet taken NUR 660, you have access to the textbook on VitalSource and your nursing texts also include learning theories).
Identify the theories you selected
Explain why you are drawn to these theories.
In a practical/concrete way, discuss how they will inform your decisions as you design your online course.
How might these theories help you to quickly adapt your curriculum to current events (e.g. the pandemic) or changes in the health care system?
Don’t overdo your answers to 1 and 2. Provide only enough information about the theories to support your answers to 3 and 4. Feel free to integrate these responses instead of thinking you have to answer them with a paragraph per question.
ANSWER
Selected Motivational and Learning Theories
Motivational Theory: Self-Determination Theory (SDT)
SDT posits that individuals are motivated by three basic psychological needs: competence, autonomy, and relatedness. When these needs are met, individuals are more likely to experience positive emotions, engage in self-regulated behavior, and persist in the face of challenges.
I am drawn to SDT because it emphasizes the importance of fostering intrinsic motivation in learners. Intrinsic motivation arises from within the individual and is driven by a desire to learn for personal satisfaction or growth. In contrast, extrinsic motivation arises from external factors, such as rewards or punishments, and is often less sustainable.
Learning Theory: Constructivism
Constructivism asserts that learners actively construct their own understanding of the world based on their prior experiences and interactions with new information. This theory emphasizes the importance of providing learners with opportunities to engage in active learning experiences, such as problem-solving, collaboration, and reflection.
I am drawn to constructivism because it aligns with my belief that learners should be active participants in their own learning process. By providing learners with opportunities to construct their own understanding, we can help them develop deeper and more meaningful knowledge.
Application to Instructional Design
SDT and constructivism can inform my decisions as I design an online course in the following ways:
SDT:
Provide opportunities for competence: Design learning activities that allow learners to experience success and build their confidence.
Encourage autonomy: Allow learners to make choices about their learning path and pace.
Foster relatedness: Create a supportive learning environment where learners feel connected to their peers and instructors.
Constructivism:
Use active learning strategies: Incorporate hands-on activities, simulations, and case studies to engage learners in the learning process.
Encourage collaboration: Provide opportunities for learners to work together on projects and discussions.
Promote reflection: Encourage learners to reflect on their learning experiences and synthesize their understanding.
Adapting to Current Events and Changes
SDT and constructivism can also help me quickly adapt my curriculum to current events or changes in the healthcare system in the following ways:
SDT:
Identify and address learners’ concerns: Be responsive to learners’ anxieties and provide support as needed.
Connect learning to real-world issues: Use current events and healthcare trends as examples and case studies.
Emphasize the relevance of learning: Help learners see how the course material is applicable to their professional practice.
Constructivism:
Incorporate new information into existing frameworks: Help learners integrate new knowledge with their existing understanding.
Encourage critical thinking: Guide learners in evaluating information and forming their own conclusions.
Foster lifelong learning: Encourage learners to develop the skills and mindset to adapt to ongoing changes in the healthcare field.
By incorporating the principles of SDT and constructivism into my instructional design, I can create an online course that is engaging, motivating, and adaptable to current events and changes in the healthcare system.