This presentation serves as the inaugural installment of a seven-part series dedicated to the foundational principles of instructional design through the lens of Merrill's First Principles of Instruction. It outlines the core competencies required for effective practice, establishing a framework for understanding how theoretical models translate into systemic educational solutions. By defining the scope of the field, the lecture prepares practitioners to navigate the complexities of designing learning experiences across diverse institutional contexts.
The discussion emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of instructional design, situating it at the intersection of psychology, education, and strategic communication. This introductory session identifies the essential pillars of the discipline—ranging from performance analysis to iterative evaluation—which will be explored in greater depth throughout the subsequent modules. It provides the necessary conceptual grounding for both novice designers and seasoned educators seeking to formalize their pedagogical approaches.