What are some of the best practices and tips for applying the Gagne's Nine Events of Instruction model?

1 Gain attention

The first event of instruction is to gain the attention of your learners and spark their curiosity. You can do this by using a variety of techniques, such as asking a provocative question, telling a relevant story, showing a surprising statistic, or presenting a problem or challenge. The goal is to capture the learners' interest and make them want to learn more.

2 Inform objectives

The second event of instruction is to inform your learners of the objectives and outcomes of the training session. You can do this by stating the learning goals clearly and concisely, using action verbs and measurable criteria. You can also explain how the objectives relate to the learners' needs, interests, and expectations. The goal is to help the learners understand what they will learn and why it is important.

3 Stimulate recall

The third event of instruction is to stimulate the recall of prior knowledge and experience that are relevant to the new learning. You can do this by asking questions, using analogies, reviewing previous topics, or activating schema. The goal is to help the learners connect the new information to their existing mental models and frameworks.

4 Present content

The fourth event of instruction is to present the new content in a logical and organized manner. You can do this by using a variety of media, such as text, images, audio, video, or animation. You can also use examples, scenarios, cases, or demonstrations to illustrate the content. The goal is to help the learners comprehend and assimilate the new information.

5 Provide guidance

The fifth event of instruction is to provide guidance and support to help the learners apply the new information. You can do this by using feedback, hints, tips, cues, or scaffolding. You can also use models, mentors, coaches, or peers to facilitate the learning. The goal is to help the learners practice and perform the new skills or behaviors.

6 Elicit performance

The sixth event of instruction is to elicit performance and check the learners' understanding and mastery of the new information. You can do this by using quizzes, tests, exercises, assignments, or projects. You can also use simulations, role-plays, games, or scenarios to create authentic and realistic situations. The goal is to help the learners demonstrate and apply what they have learned.

7 Provide feedback

The seventh event of instruction is to provide feedback and reinforcement to the learners based on their performance. You can do this by using praise, encouragement, correction, or suggestions. You can also use rewards, recognition, or incentives to motivate the learners. The goal is to help the learners improve and refine their skills or behaviors.

8 Assess performance

The eighth event of instruction is to assess the performance and outcomes of the learners against the objectives and criteria. You can do this by using formal or informal assessments, such as surveys, evaluations, portfolios, or rubrics. You can also use self-assessment, peer-assessment, or reflection to encourage the learners to monitor and regulate their own learning. The goal is to help the learners measure and evaluate their progress and achievements.

9 Enhance retention

The ninth event of instruction is to enhance the retention and transfer of the new information to other contexts and situations. You can do this by using summaries, reviews, or recaps to reinforce the key points and concepts. You can also use follow-ups, reminders, or refresher courses to sustain the learning. The goal is to help the learners remember and apply what they have learned in the long term.

10 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?