Favorite Instructional Design Resources for Special Librarians
Lauren Hays
Many of you are in positions where you lead training. On this blog, I have shared many tips and ideas for creating effective instruction based in theory or which uses well-known frameworks.
Now, I want to share some of my favorite resources that I use when I need a refresher, or to get new ideas for instructional design.
InstructionalDesign.org: Because there are numerous learning theories and instructional design models, I often need to remind myself of the basics of ones I do not frequently use. This site provides an excellent overview of many.
Make it Stick: The Science of Successful Learning: While this book is almost 10 years old, the research-supported principles are timeless. If you need ideas for how to help individuals remember content, this book is for you.
Association for Talent and Development: This organization focuses on “professionals who help others achieve their full potential by improving their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the workplace. They go by many titles: talent development managers, trainers, instructional designers, performance consultants, frontline managers, workplace learning professionals, and more.” The organization offers professional development courses related to instructional design.
The Learning Guild: “The Learning Guild is a community of practice for those supporting the design, development, strategy, and management of organizational learning.” The Guild hosts conferences and produces publications on learning design.
Action@Work Blog: Cathy Moore writes a blog about training for working adults. The blog is full of great resources and ideas.
UnSplash: A great place to access stock photos with a Creative Commons Zero license.
Google Fonts: A great location for different (free!) fonts.
I hope some of my preferred resources spark new ideas for you!
Lauren Hays
Dr. Lauren Hays is an Assistant Professor of Instructional Technology at the University of Central Missouri, and a frequent presenter and interviewer on topics related to libraries and librarianship. Please read Lauren’s other posts relevant to special librarians. Take a look at Lucidea’s powerful integrated library systems, SydneyEnterprise, and GeniePlus, used daily by innovative special librarians in libraries of all types, sizes and budgets.
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