Table of Contents

1. Instructional Design Foundations
2. Job Titles & Roles in Instructional Design
    
3. Commonly Used Models & Methodologies
4. Essential Tools & Technologies
5. Portfolio & Job Hunting Terms
    
6. Slang & Fun Terms in the IDOL World
7. Corporate & Workplace Learning Terms
8. Evaluation & Learning Metrics
   
   

Stepping into the world of instructional design (ID) can feel like learning a new language. Whether you're transitioning from teaching to instructional design, exploring a career shift, or upskilling, understanding key industry terms will help you navigate job descriptions, training methodologies, and portfolio-building like a pro.

This glossary is designed to give you a solid foundation in instructional design terminology—covering job titles, methodologies, tools, and even the unique slang of the IDOL courses. Bookmark this guide for quick reference, and if you have terms you'd like to add, drop them in the comments!

1. Instructional Design Foundations

Instructional design is the science and art of creating effective learning experiences. Understanding key theories and frameworks like andragogy, constructivism, and cognitive load theory can help designers develop engaging, learner-centered content. These foundational principles guide how instructional designers structure courses, deliver content, and support knowledge retention.

• Instructional Design (ID) – The practice of designing, developing, and delivering learning experiences based on instructional theories and best practices.
• Learning Experience Design (LXD) – A learner-centered approach to instructional design that incorporates user experience (UX) principles.
• Andragogy – The study of how adults learn, emphasizing self-directed learning, real-world application, and intrinsic motivation.
• Constructivism – A learning theory stating that learners construct knowledge based on experiences rather than passively receiving information.
• Heutagogy – A learner-centered approach that emphasizes self-determined learning and adaptability.
• Behaviorism – A theory that learning is a response to external stimuli and reinforcement.
• Constructivism – A learning theory stating that learners construct knowledge based on experiences rather than passively receiving information.
• Cognitive Load Theory – The idea that instructional materials should minimize unnecessary mental effort to improve learning efficiency.
• Connectivism – A modern learning theory emphasizing the role of social and technological networks in learning.
• Microlearning – Bite-sized learning modules designed for quick and focused consumption.
• Blended Learning – A mix of online and in-person training methods.
• Self-Paced Learning – Training that learners complete on their own time without a set schedule.
• Adaptive Learning – A personalized learning experience where content adjusts based on learner performance.

Learn more here: Ultimate Guide to Instructional Design: Everything You Need to Know

2. Job Titles & Roles in Instructional Design

The instructional design field offers a variety of career paths, from corporate trainers to eLearning developers. While some roles focus on content creation, others emphasize technology, user experience, or strategy. Whether you're an aspiring instructional designer or looking to specialize, knowing these roles can help you carve out the right career path.

• Instructional Designer (ID) – Designs and develops learning experiences, often using instructional theories and eLearning tools.
• Learning Experience Designer (LXD) – Similar to an ID but with a stronger focus on user experience and learner engagement.
• eLearning Developer – Specializes in creating digital learning experiences using authoring tools like Articulate Storyline and Adobe Captivate.
• Corporate Trainer – Delivers live training sessions, either in-person or virtually, to employees within an organization.
• Curriculum Designer – Focuses on structuring and developing course content for academic or corporate settings.
• Freelance ID – Works independently with clients to design and develop training programs.
• Learning & Development (L&D) Specialist – Oversees employee training programs within an organization.
• Learning Technologist – Focuses on integrating technology into the learning experience.
• Performance Consultant – Analyzes workplace performance issues and designs solutions that may or may not involve training.
• Content Developer – Creates educational materials, including scripts, manuals, and interactive content.
• Educational Technologist – Implements and supports the use of technology in learning environments.

Learn more here: Transitioning Careers into Instructional Design

3. Commonly Used Models & Methodologies

Instructional design models provide a structured approach to creating effective training programs. From the well-known ADDIE framework to agile models like SAM and goal-based strategies like action mapping, these methodologies help designers create structured, measurable, and engaging learning experiences.

• ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate) – The most widely used instructional design framework, providing a step-by-step process for creating effective learning experiences.
• SAM (Successive Approximation Model) – An agile, iterative approach to instructional design that allows for continuous improvements.
• Merrill’s First Principles of Instruction – A problem-centered instructional design theory focusing on real-world application.
• Bloom’s Taxonomy – A framework for categorizing learning objectives into six levels: Remember, Understand, Apply, Analyze, Evaluate, and Create.
• Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction – A structured approach that outlines nine steps to create effective learning experiences.
• Kirkpatrick Model – A four-level framework for evaluating the effectiveness of training programs.
• Action Mapping – A goal-based approach to instructional design that focuses on measurable performance improvements.
• MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) – A large-scale, free online learning course available to a global audience.
• Competency-Based Learning – A training approach where learners advance based on demonstrated mastery of skills rather than time spent in training.

Learn more here: Keep Your Instructional Design Skills Up-to-Date: Top 3 Resources to Explore!

4. Essential Tools & Technologies

Modern instructional design heavily relies on technology to deliver effective training. Learning Management Systems (LMS), authoring tools like Articulate Storyline and Adobe Captivate, and standards like SCORM and xAPI help designers develop, track, and optimize digital learning experiences. Understanding these tools is essential for success in eLearning development.

• LMS (Learning Management System) – A platform used to host, track, and manage training content (e.g., Moodle, LearnDash, Cornerstone).
• SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) – A standard for packaging and delivering eLearning content.
• xAPI (Experience API) – A newer standard that tracks learning experiences across multiple platforms.
• LRS (Learning Record Store) – A system that stores xAPI learning activity data.
• Authoring Tools – Software used to create eLearning content, including Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, Vyond, Camtasia, iSpring Suite, and Lectora.
• Learning Analytics – The process of collecting and analyzing data to measure learning effectiveness.
• Mobile Learning (mLearning) – Learning designed for smartphones and tablets, making training accessible on the go.

Learn more here: Top Tools for Teachers Transitioning to Instructional Design

5. Portfolio & Job Hunting Terms

A strong portfolio is critical for instructional designers to showcase their skills and land jobs. Employers look for well-structured work samples, ATS-friendly resumes, and a solid understanding of job-seeking strategies. Networking and leveraging platforms like IDOL Talent or freelance marketplaces can help professionals break into the industry.

• Portfolio – A collection of eLearning samples showcasing an instructional designer’s skills.
• Applicant Tracking System (ATS) – Software used by recruiters to scan resumes for keywords before a human review.
• STAR Method – A structured way to answer behavioral interview questions (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Networking – Connecting with industry professionals to discover job opportunities and grow professionally.
• Freelance Platforms – Websites like Upwork and Fiverr where instructional designers can find contract work.
• IDOL Talent – A staffing agency that connects IDOL Academy graduates with instructional design job opportunities.

Learn more here: Building an Instructional Design Portfolio

6. Slang & Fun Terms in the IDOL World

The instructional design community has developed its own unique language, filled with fun and quirky terms. From "Do It Messy," which encourages action over perfection, to "Clicky Clicky Bling Bling," which mocks flashy but ineffective eLearning, understanding these terms helps designers feel like part of the community.

• IDOL Mug Club – A special recognition for IDOL Academy graduates who have landed an instructional design job.
• Do It Messy – A mindset encouraging action over perfection when building a portfolio or learning new skills.
• Scope Creep – When a project expands beyond its original goals, often leading to extra work.
• SME (Subject Matter Expert) – A professional who provides expertise for course content.
• Rapid Prototyping – Creating quick, rough drafts of eLearning courses for testing and iteration.
• Imposter Syndrome – The feeling of doubt despite having the skills and experience needed for success.
• "Clicky Clicky Bling Bling" – A phrase referring to flashy but ineffective eLearning.

7. Corporate & Workplace Learning Terms

Corporate instructional design goes beyond just creating courses—it involves improving employee performance, enhancing workplace learning strategies, and aligning training with business goals. Terms like Training Needs Analysis (TNA) help organizations identify skill gaps, while onboarding programs ensure new employees are set up for success. Concepts like upskilling (enhancing existing skills) and reskilling (training employees for a new role) are becoming essential in today’s evolving job market. Knowledge management also plays a crucial role by ensuring employees have easy access to critical company information when they need it.

• Training Needs Analysis (TNA) – Identifying training gaps in an organization.
• Performance Support – Tools and resources provided to employees for on-the-job learning.
• Job Aids – Reference materials that help employees perform tasks.
• Onboarding – Training for new employees.
• Upskilling vs. Reskilling – Upskilling enhances existing skills; reskilling teaches new skills for a different role.
• Change Management – The process of guiding employees through organizational change.

8. Evaluation & Learning Metrics

Measuring the impact of training is essential for proving its value to stakeholders and continuously improving learning experiences. The Kirkpatrick Model is a widely used framework for evaluating training effectiveness at four levels: reaction, learning, behavior, and results. ROI (Return on Investment) helps determine whether a training program is financially beneficial, while learner engagement and completion rates provide insight into how well a course is received. Modern analytics tools, such as heatmap analysis, track learner interactions in eLearning modules, helping instructional designers refine content for better performance.

• ROI (Return on Investment) – Measuring the financial benefits of training.
• Learner Engagement – Measuring how actively learners participate.
• Completion Rate – The percentage of learners who finish a course.
• Assessment Validity – Ensuring that tests accurately measure learning.
• Formative vs. Summative Evaluation – Formative happens during training; summative happens after.
• Net Promoter Score (NPS) – A measure of learner satisfaction.
• Heatmap Analysis – Tracking where learners click most in an eLearning course.

Conclusion

Mastering instructional design terminology is an essential step toward confidence in your career. Whether you're prepping for an interview, building your portfolio, or starting your first ID job, knowing these terms will help you navigate the industry like a pro.