Importance of Understanding Various Learning Theories

It is essential for instructional designers to understand different perspectives on how people learn because there are many different ways to approach a learning task. Some tasks are well-suited to be approached through a behaviorist lens. Other tasks need to be approached using a cognitivist mindset, while others require the designer to go deeper and use constructivist principles. Using task analyses and information gathered during initial ID meetings, the instructional designer must be able to draw on foundational knowledge in order to design the right product based on customer needs. Without a strong understanding of the major learning theories, instructional designers run the risk of being unable to meet the needs of their client.