Introduction to Robert Gagné´s theory

Developing instruction (for computers and other media) is called Instructional Design (in the U.S.). The word "Design" actually means "Development" as it includes prior analysis, the design, delivery considerations (like suitable media) and later evaluation.

The word "Instruction" implies a didactic presentation, which may not be appropriate. I prefer the term "educational intervention" meaning any activity by a teacher to encourage learning in students. However, Instructional Design (ID) is more convenient than "intervention development".

ID is a systematic approach to designing instruction and instructional materials to achieve specified learning objectives. This contrasts with traditional methods such as sitting at the feet of a Master, or "sitting with Nellie". ID is independent of the use of computers to "deliver" the instruction. The ideas of Robert Gagné and his colleagues are well known and illustrate the importance to ID of an underlying theory of learning.