The Four Elements of a Learning Experience

As an instructional designer it is very important to understand that for effective learning to occur, four key elements must be present in any learning experience: a qualified learner, subject matter for learning, contextual relevance of the learning, and learning outcomes. Knowing these elements clearly will help create a meaningful and impactful opportunity for the learner to gain new knowledge, perspectives, or skills.

Let's look at these four elements in detail.

Qualified Learner

The first element is a qualified learner. The learner needs to have some baseline knowledge, abilities, or life experience that allows them to engage with and comprehend the subject matter. A very young child may struggle to grasp advanced physics concepts, for example. The learner also needs to be motivated and ready to learn. Their qualification does not refer to degrees or credentials, but rather their capability to make sense of and apply the learning.

As an ID, here are some best practices to keep in mind with respect to this element:

• Assess the learner's baseline knowledge, competencies, and readiness to learn at the outset through pre-assessments.
• Ensure the learning objectives and curriculum align to the needs, interests and developmental level of the intended learners.
• Offer differentiated instruction, scaffolding, and flexible pacing for learners with diverse needs.
• Foster learner motivation by conveying relevance, building self-efficacy, and promoting a growth mindset.

Subject Matter

The second element is the actual material being taught and learned—the subject matter. This includes concepts, information, theories, procedures, facts, and ideas within a particular discipline or skillset. The subject matter needs to be organized and sequenced appropriately to facilitate learning. It should build on previous knowledge and increase in complexity or depth.

As an ID, here are some best practices to keep in mind with respect to this element:

• Chunk subject matter into coherent learning units or modules with clear objectives per unit.
• Sequence units in order of prerequisite skills and knowledge, from basic to complex.
• Use a variety of well-researched instructional strategies and teaching methods suitable for the subject matter.
• Design opportunities for learners to recall and practice key learnings multiple times in varied contexts.

Contextual Relevance

In order for effective learning to stick, the subject matter should relate to the learner’s current context and goals. The learning needs to be applicable and useful within the learner’s personal, academic, professional, or community life. This contextual relevance gives meaning and immediacy so the learner recognizes the value of the subject matter. Real-world problems, case studies, and examples help establish this relevance.

As an ID, here are some best practices to keep in mind with respect to this element:

• Include real-world examples, case studies, and problem-based activities tied to learners’ experience.
• Embed relatable issues, perspectives, and applications within the subject matter.
• Share examples of how skills apply in everyday work, academic, civic and interpersonal contexts.
• Incorporate role-playing scenarios or simulations replicating real situations.

Outcome of Learning

The last essential element is the outcome of learning. The learner should acquire new knowledge, deeper understanding, improved skills, or changed perspectives that can be applied going forward. This advances the learner’s development. Without an outcome that impacts capability or worldview, the learning experience remains incomplete. Evaluating, demonstrating, or applying the learning helps recognize the outcome.

As an ID, here are some best practices to keep in mind with respect to this element:

• Align learning assessments to stated objectives, ensuring full coverage.
• Provide rubrics and models to clarify learning performance targets.
• Use pre-, formative, and summative assessments to track progress and check for outcomes.
• Require learners to demonstrate attainment of outcomes through applied tasks, not just tests.

When these four key elements are intentionally built into an educational program, course, or activity, the learning experience is more impactful, constructive, and transformative for the learner.

Educators and instructional designers must consider these elements when facilitating effective learning.