Helen Lindsay's sandbox

Unit 3
=The designer’s knowledge= As the designer, you should have an overall framework, or ‘big picture’ approach so that you can develop and design the learning resource for the context and culture of a particular learning environment. You will need a working knowledge of the following: the main branches of learning theory, including behavioural learning theory, cognitive learning theory, experiential learning theory, information processing theory, as well as knowing about current research on learning as it relates to teaching in an adult environment (covered later in this topic) principles, theories and contemporary practices of instructional design (see Topic 2) language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) issues, such as: requirements of the target audience using the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) as a framework to aid instructional design (see Topic 3) knowledge of the vocational education and training (VET) system, including: relevant terminology training packages and accredited courses (see this topic:  Topic 1) the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) (see this topic) legal, organisational and ethical responsibilities associated with the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF)2 and the assessment system, such as: maintaining client privacy and confidentiality

=Adult learning theories=

It is likely that the target audience for your resource will be adults. Much has been written about how adults learn and how to teach adults. There is a broad range of adult learning theories, and these theories can influence the way you design a resource. They include: behavioural learning theory cognitive learning theory experiential learning theory information processing theory other theories based on current research on learning and teaching in an adult environment. The following table highlights the key elements of the different learning theories. Adult learning theories

Research task 3: Learning Theories Research two of the learning theories listed in the table above. For a comparison of instructional design approaches, see: University of Washington eproject, 2003, ‘Instructional design approaches’, University of Washington, viewed August 2012, . Identify the practical applications these learning theories could have in relation to the design approach you are taking with your proposed learning resource. Discuss your research findings with colleagues.