INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN ANALYSIS
ID ANALYSIS: WHAT IS IT AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Overview:
Analysis in instructional design includes needs analysis, task analysis, and learner analysis to identify gaps in skills, performance, and knowledge. These analyses ensure that training programs are targeted, effective, and aligned with both learner and organizational goals.
Relevance to Adult Learning:
These analyses align with adult learners' need for relevant, practical learning and enable facilitators to address diverse backgrounds and learning preferences. They support stakeholder goals by identifying and solving performance gaps effectively.
Common Tools Include:
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Surveys
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Focus Groups
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Demographic Assessments
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Performance Evaluations.​
NEEDS & TASK ANALYSIS
Overview
Needs and Task Analysis are critical steps in instructional design that identify what learners need to know and the specific tasks they must perform to meet instructional goals. Needs Analysis focuses on determining gaps between current and desired performance, while Task Analysis breaks down complex tasks into smaller, actionable steps. Together, these analyses ensure that instructional programs are targeted, effective, and aligned with both learner and organizational objectives.
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Needs analysis takes place at three levels: Organizational, Operational, and Individual
(Learning Everest, 2023)
Relevance to Adult Learning
For adult learners, these analyses provide a focused and practical approach to learning. Needs Analysis ensures that training addresses real-world challenges and gaps in knowledge, while Task Analysis delivers a clear roadmap for developing skills. By tailoring instruction to specific needs and tasks, these analyses foster engagement, relevance, and immediate applicability, making learning outcomes more meaningful for adults.
Tool Use
Common tools for Needs Analysis include:
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Surveys
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Focus groups
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Interviews
These tools help in gathering data on performance gaps and learner expectations.
Common tools for Task Analysis include:
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Flowcharts
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Hierarchical breakdowns
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Job task observations
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These tools help in gathering details of each step of a task, ensuring nothing critical is overlooked. Both analyses benefit from tools like spreadsheets or software for organizing and prioritizing data.
(Learning Everest, 2023)
VIDEO: Needs Assessment Process
(GregU, 2019)
​Use in Manufacturing Facilitation
In manufacturing, Needs Analysis identifies gaps in technical competencies, such as a lack of knowledge about new machinery or safety protocols. Task Analysis helps create step-by-step guides or training modules for processes like equipment setup or troubleshooting. Together, they ensure that training is practical and directly aligned with the operational goals of the manufacturing environment.
VIDEO: Training Needs Analysis
(Learning Everest, 2023)
Praxis and Reflective Practices
Needs analysis can be used to design a program addressing safety compliance and Task Analysis to outline the specific steps for machine calibration training. After implementation, evaluate whether the training addressed the identified needs and whether learners successfully applied the task steps. This feedback can be used to refine future analyses and programs.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & REFERENCES
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Brown, A. H., & Green, T. D. (2020). The essentials of instructional design: Connecting fundamental principles with process and practice (4th ed.). Routledge.
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GreggU. (2019, July 13). Needs assessment process [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbL2k9rGqWU
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Learning Everest. (2024, February 29). Graphic image of six training needs analysis tools [Image]. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from https://www.learningeverest.com/reassessing-the-three-levels-of-training-needs-analysis/
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Learning Everest. (2024, February 29). Graphic image of training needs analysis levels [Image]. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from https://www.learningeverest.com/reassessing-the-three-levels-of-training-needs-analysis/
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Learning Everest. (2023, November 10). Training needs analysis video [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjEaKtDrhJM
AUDIENCE / LEARNERS ANALYSIS
Overview:
Audience/Learners Analysis is the process of understanding who your learners are, including their backgrounds, skills, motivations, and preferences. This analysis ensures that instructional materials are tailored to the specific needs of the audience, creating more effective and engaging learning experiences.
Relevance to Adult Learning:
In adult education, Audience/Learners Analysis ensures that learning materials are tailored to address learner diversity, including varying skill levels, cultural contexts, and preferred learning methods. This process helps instructors design more personalized and impactful learning experiences.
Tool Use:
Audience/Learners Analysis involves tools like demographic surveys, skills assessments, and focus groups to gather information about learners' prior knowledge, cultural backgrounds, and preferences. Advanced tools, such as personas or learner profiles, can help visualize the needs of different learner segments.
VIDEO: Needs Assessment Process
(The Indian ID, 2024)
Use in Manufacturing Facilitation:
In manufacturing, Audience Analysis ensures that training meets the needs of a multigenerational workforce with varying levels of technical skills. For example, it might reveal that certain learners prefer hands-on training, while others benefit from visual aids or step-by-step guides. This analysis helps tailor content to accommodate all learners effectively.
Praxis and Reflective Practices
Conduct an Audience Analysis to ensure a learning program aligns with the diverse needs of participants and incorporates methods that resonate with their preferences. Collect and analyze feedback from learners after the training to assess how well the program met their needs and preferences. Use these insights to refine future Audience Analyses and enhance instructional designs.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & REFERENCES
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Brown, A. H., & Green, T. D. (2020). The essentials of instructional design: Connecting fundamental principles with process and practice (4th ed.). Routledge.
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The Indian ID. (2024, February 15). Audience analysis for instructional design [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXiqztyCIwc