Instructional Design Managers and Lead Educators
Onboarding new instructional designers to the team's standard terminology and theoretical foundations
Use cases
About
The Personal Definition of ID mind map is a comprehensive knowledge framework for instructional designers, covering over 200 nodes across the entire lifecycle of educational development. This Instructional Design and Technology template serves as a professional cheat sheet for practitioners to navigate complex theories and practical workflows. It systematically organizes the field into core functional pillars including Analyze, Research, Manage, and Design. By integrating foundational concepts like Gagne's Theory of Instruction and Cognitive load design, the map provides a structured approach to creating learner-centered classrooms. It specifically addresses modern challenges such as reducing cognitive load and leveraging mobile learning strategies to improve learning and performance in diverse educational settings.
Terms and ConditionsWhen to use this template
Curriculum Developers and Learning Architects
Planning a comprehensive curriculum redesign that requires balancing cognitive load and active learning
Students and EdTech Researchers
Preparing for a professional certification exam or academic review in Educational Technology
How to use this template
Step 1
Import the template file
Open the .xmind file in Xmind desktop or web app to view the full 200-node Instructional Design and Technology map.
Step 2
Navigate the functional pillars
Expand the major branches like Research or Design to explore specific theories and methodologies relevant to your current project phase.
Step 3
Customize with specific tools
Replace generic nodes under Technological Resources with the specific software or LMS platforms used by your organization.
Frequently asked questions
This template includes a wide array of pedagogical frameworks such as Schema Theory, Situational Learning Theory, Connectivism, and Gagne's Theory of Instruction. It also emphasizes Cognitive load design to help designers manage essential and generative processing during the learning experience.
The Manage branch provides a roadmap for leading teams and handling production. It includes specific nodes for the Situational Leadership Model, meeting deadlines, and maintaining effective communication throughout the instructional design lifecycle.
Yes, the template features a dedicated section on Mobile Learning. It highlights the Least Assistance Principle and Minimalism, advising designers to analyze performance gaps and the context of performance when developing mobile-first interventions.
Absolutely. While the template provides a dense 200-node structure covering everything from 'Analyze' to 'Evaluate', you can easily add your own case studies, specific technological resources, or internal team workflows to the existing branches.
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