This is a report of one case of a design and development research study that aimed to validate an overlay instructional design model incorporating the theory of multiple intelligences into instructional systems design. After design and expert review model validation, The Multiple Intelligence (MI) Design Model, used with an Instructional Systems Design (ISD) Model, was tested for use by four practicing instructional designers. Instruction developed for learners using this model was then evaluated measuring post-test and attitudinal scores with 102 participants.This report also provides a reflection on the lessons learned in conducting design and development research on model validation. The procedures and findings have implications for the processes involved in instructional design model validation through designer use and program implementation.
Design and Development Research: A Model Validation CaseDesign and development research is "the systematic study of design, development and evaluation processes with the aim of establishing an empirical basis for the creation of instructional and non-instructional products and tools and new or enhanced models that govern their development" (Richey & Klein, 2007, p.xv). It is a practical form of research that attempts to test theory and validate practice. Numerous models exist in the field of instructional design that assist designers working in a variety of settings (Gustafson and Branch, 2002). Historically many of these models have not undergone rigorous or systematic review. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on systematically studying the processes involved in the construction, validation, and implementation of instructional design models (Seels, 1994;Richey, 1998;Richey, Klein & Nelson, 2004). In an effort to better understand this design and development model validation case, we begin with a description of the context related to the development of the model. This includes definitions and background content on instructional design, multiple intelligences, and the instructional designer.Instructional design (ID) is defined as an arrangement of resources and procedures used to promote learning (Gagné, Wager, Golas, & Keller, 2005). ID models are visual representations of the ID process and are used to guide design in many settings and for many purposes (Seels & Glasgow, 1998). They are typically a result of the combination of abstract principles of General Systems Theory and analyses of practitioner experience (Banathy & Jenlink, 2004). Instructional design is the process used to create the type and delivery of instruction. Some see design as problem solving; others view it as a process of reflection-inaction, where designers take on the task of turning indeterminate situations into determinate ones (Tripp, 1991).Learning is the acquisition of the knowledge of a skill, art, or trade, by study, and/or experiences (Lindvall, 1995). It is generally agreed that learners develop understanding for themselves in ways that differ, sometimes quite sh...