What is the Backward Design Approach?

As I continuously work on improving my instructional designer skills, I revisit the different learning theories and frameworksI can incorporate in designing courses. One of these frameworks is what we call the Backward Design. In this article, we are going to explore what Backward Design is and how it can be used in training.

The Basics of Backward Design Approach

In the book Understanding by Design, Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe introduced this alternative model in developing courses. Through this model, instructional designers become more intentional in planning the course since they have the learning goals as a guide. This approach is useful for developing training programs as it allows IDs to visualize the whole process in detail. Aside from that, they determine the important steps to help learners achieve their goals. Apart from being a learner-centered approach, this framework is cost-effective for companies since it only requires the most important resources.

Stages of the Framework

The process of Backward Design involves designing a curriculum in reverse. It starts with the end goal and then works backward to the identified set of assessment tools. This is followed by planning the modes of instruction together with the necessary training resources.

The diagram below shows the three stages involved in this model.

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Stage 1 focuses on determining the learning objectives of the courses. In this stage, instructional designers must identify the concepts and skills that the learners are expected to acquire. Stage 2, on the other hand, involves identifying the assessment tools to measure the learner’s understanding of the concepts and skills. Lastly, Stage 3 is about planning the delivery of instruction and all the materials needed for the course.

How to use Backward Design for Corporate Training Programs?

The use of this framework is not limited to basic to tertiary education alone. There are several advantages of using this approach for adult training programs too. These include:

1. addressing specific challenges in the workplace – since the framework uses the learning goals or outcomes as the backbone of the entire curriculum, companies can focus their resources in directly addressing performance or knowledge-related issues.
2. eliminating information dump – by focusing on the most important competencies, instructional designers can design more intentional materials to address the specific learning needs.

In conclusion, Backward Design is a learner-centered, cost-effective, and practical approach that instructional designers can use in creating training programs. With the end goal in mind, instructional designers become more intentional with each topic, assessment, and material. This saves the learners and the facilitators the time and energy that they can spend practicing the skills to improve performance.

FAQs about Backward Design Approach

What is Backward Design?

Backward Design is an instructional design approach introduced by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe in their book “Understanding by Design.” This approach involves designing courses by starting with the end goal in mind and working backward to identify learning objectives, assessment tools, and instructional strategies. It emphasizes learner-centered planning and intentional course design.

How does Backward Design work?

The Backward Design process consists of three stages:

• Stage 1: Identifying learning objectives: Instructional designers determine the concepts and skills that learners are expected to acquire.
• Stage 2: Selecting assessment tools: Designers identify assessment methods to measure learners’ understanding of the objectives.
• Stage 3: Planning instruction: Designers plan instructional activities and resources to facilitate learning and achieve the objectives.

What are the benefits of using Backward Design in training programs?

Backward Design offers several advantages for training programs, including:

• Addressing specific workplace challenges: By focusing on learning goals, companies can tailor training programs to address performance or knowledge-related issues.
• Eliminating information overload: Designers prioritize essential competencies, leading to more intentional and focused instructional materials.
• Promoting learner-centered and cost-effective training: Backward Design allows for efficient use of resources by focusing on the most critical learning outcomes.

How can Backward Design be applied in corporate training programs?

This can be applied to adult training programs by:

• Identifying learning objectives aligned with organizational goals.
• Developing targeted assessment methods to measure skill acquisition.
• Designing instructional materials and activities that support learners in achieving the desired outcomes.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of the training program based on predefined success criteria.

Summary: Optimizing Training with Backward Design Approach

Backward Design is a strategic approach to instructional design that prioritizes learner-centered planning and intentional course development. By starting with the end goal and working backward to identify learning objectives, assessment tools, and instructional strategies, instructional designers can create effective and efficient training programs. Additionally, this approach promotes focused learning, addresses workplace challenges, and maximizes the impact of training initiatives. With its emphasis on learner outcomes and efficient resource utilization, this approach is a valuable framework for creating cost-effective and impactful training programs in corporate settings.

Interested in other frameworks that instructional designers can use, feel free to check out my articles on the ADDIE model, Bloom’s Taxonomy, Flipped Classroom, and Gagne’s 9 Events of Instruction.