Alignment

For instructional design to be effective, the essential components of learning – clearly stated objectives, meaningful activities and fair assessments – need to closely relate to each other. This process, known as alignment, helps learners more successfully accomplish the learning goal while getting the most out of the instruction.

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Benefits of alignment include identifying a clear course direction and well-defined parameters for learner evaluation. Using alignment, instructional designers can also decrease cognitive load by keeping learners and materials focused. The culminating effect of the alignment process results in a more meaningful experience and increased motivation for the learner.

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The Alignment Chart below illustrates the scope of objectives, activities and assessments developed for the project Establishing and Maintaining Good Credit: What Young Adults Need to Know. The objectives are sequenced based on Bloom’s Level of Taxonomy and clearly state what the learner should know after completing the course. The activities and assessments are designed to reinforce the objectives. Together, these components more effectively engage the learner and enhance success.