Learner-Centered
A Contextual Instructional Design (CID) process is somewhat different from the linear-behavioral models such as the Dick and Carey (1996) model presented in the other section of this zone. CID is a dynamic model which is more open-ended to insure that the learner is provided opportunities to make learning meaningful through experiences and information, and use these experiences and information to construct their own knowledge.
CID considers how various stages and elements of instruction interact with each other and within which any of the elements could be considered at any time. This requires a flexible process for learning, a process which does not follow an artificial or non-contextually-based sequential order.
This process focuses on the planning of learning environments and contexts which support the learners desire to make learning meaningful and construct their knowledge. The key to CID is creating instructional and learning materials which assist learners with making connections between their existing knowledge and experiences, and new information and skills.
The major elements of CID are:
Contextualization as an Internalized Learning Environment
Aligning curriculum with state and national standards
