The Essentials of Instructional Design: Connecting Fundamental Principles with Process and Practice

This book is an excellent overview of the history and conceptual framework (foundational elements) of ISD and instructional design. It covers the fundamental principles, processes, and practices that undergird and define the field. The authors intentionally do not subscribe to any single ID model or approach. This approach clearly explicates the principles of design; subsequently, the authors describe, compare, and contrast the processes of applying each principle as utilized by the field's leading practitioners. Within each chapter, there are practical examples and application questions to reinforce the principles.

Mostly good stuff, especially for those unfamiliar with the discipline of instructional design (ID). Lots of theory review, but practical descriptions of what to with the theory are hit and miss. Also lots of typos.

The book covers basic ID concepts in a very high-level format. The book layout, fonts, images scream “I’m an old-fashioned textbook from the 80s.” Might be a good reference for someone new to ID concepts (like a novice training project manager). I was looking for a book that I could use as a reference on different ID concepts/models, but discovered that some of the basic concepts are not addressed - e.g., Merrill is mentioned in passing, but no info about his principles of instruction ( integrate, activate, etc). Also, no word about Keller's ACRS. Not a lot of info on content dev models (except for ADDIE).

The book is really good. So far I'm on page chapter 3 and I can tell that it is a worth while read.ButThis book for the price looks cheap. It looks like the book was photocopied before delivery. Paper sheets are awful and the front book looks as something I could make on any printing store.This book for the quality is a 40 or less dollar book. Not 60.

Just as someone's mentioned, there are a few typos and grammatical errors. I constantly have to read previous lines over and over again for it to make sense.