Building Expertise: Cognitive Methods for Training and Performance Improvement

Chapter 2. Four Ingredients of Instruction

Overwhelming evidence has shown that learning in an online environment can be as effective as that in traditional classrooms

—TALLENT-RUNNELS, THOMAS, LAN, COOPER, AHREN, SHAW, AND LIU, 2006

IN THIS CHAPTER

I introduce the four key components of all learning environments: modes, methods, media, and architectures. Communication modes include text, audio, and graphics. Instructional methods are techniques such as examples and practice exercises used to deliver content and promote learning. Media are the devices that deliver training and include instructors, books, and various types of digital technology. Finally, lessons are framed on the basis of four design architectures: receptive, directive, guided discovery, ...