The best instructional design books can help you better understand everything that goes into creating effective learning experiences. They provide an overview of the core principles, tools, and strategies that are essential for crafting engaging eLearning content.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, instructional design books can help you create more impactful online courses and learning experiences for students.
Every book from the list will help you broaden your horizons as an eTeacher, or encounter alternative approaches to what you thought was written in stone. My review covers 100 titles in 16 categories.
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Now, let’s get down to some reading!
Beginner’s Guides
Here you can find a list of books I recommend for novice course authors and trainers. Read on for basic principles, terms and scenarios.
1. Design for How People Learn (2nd Edition) (Voices That Matter)
By Julie Dirksen, 2015
A great fit for beginners and experts alike, this clearly written book underlines the key factors behind learning, memory, and knowledge acquisition that instructional designers should leverage to create engaging materials. Great imagery, facts, figures, and an impeccable sense of humor.
2. Essentials of Online Course Design: A Standards-Based Guide (Essentials of Online Learning). 2nd Edition
By Marjorie Vai, Kristen Sosulski, 2011
A brief overview of e-Learning development and implementation, this work outlines smart pedagogical, organizational and visual design tools, and best practices. Practice supported by theory, a checklist of standards, assessment techniques, writing styles, group work recommendations, and nice illustrations inside.
3. Instructional Design for ELearning: Essential guide to creating successful eLearning courses
By Marina Arshavskiy, 2013
This book is an easy introduction to Instructional Design (ID). How-tos, comprehensive tables, surveys, nifty visuals, templates, and tips for keeping up knowledge retention. A good summary of theoretical and practical issues unveiled in simple precise wording. Highly recommended for beginners.
4. Delivering E-Learning: A Complete Strategy for Design, Application and Assessment. 1st Edition
By Kenneth Fee, 2009
Looking for a strategic perspective? Then it’s wiser to pick another source. This text’s goal is merely to provide clear step-by-step guidance to course creation. The book slants towards learning approaches rather than specific technology, deciphers jargon, and dispels misconceptions.
5. E-Learning Fundamentals: A Practical Guide Paperback
By Diane Elkins, Desiree Pinder, 2015
Why e-Learning? What is an LMS? How to write a storyboard? These and more questions find concise answers in this book. Basics of e-Learning design, test questions, efficient media, review and assessment processes are covered in this beginner’s guide.
6. Systematic Design of Instruction. 8th Edition
By Walter Dick, Lou Carey, James O. Carey, 2014
Once dubbed ‘the Bible of Instructional Design’, this text covers all the fundamentals for edu decision-makers. Best procedures for designing, developing, and assessment. A simple yet meticulous approach to prioritizing and reaching learning goals. A handbook for future Masters in training.
7. Principles of Instructional Design. 5th Edition
By Robert M. Gagne, Walter W. Wager, Katharine Golas, John M. Keller, 2004
Leveraging psychology and information processing, this guide to ID describes comprehensive courses and instruction modules. The technology part may sound outdated, but the cultural context and learner-driven approaches are here to stay. Handy reference book for newbies and power designers.
8. Instructional Design. 3rd Edition
By Patricia L. Smith, Tillman J. Ragan, 2004
A source of inspiration for K-12 teachers, this work speaks of declarative and procedural knowledge, various learning scenarios and techniques. The authors follow the ADDIE model to support their ID vision. Most grads and practitioners find this book a valuable investment!
9. Designing Effective Instruction. 5th Edition
By Gary R. Morrison, Steven M. Ross, Jerrold E. Kemp, 2006
A classic ID textbook and reference material juxtaposing theory and real-world examples for teachers-to-be and seasoned trainers. Easy-to-follow advice applies smoothly to K-12, higher education, distance learning, and business training. Authors blend behavioral and cognitive methodologies for comprehensive results.
10. Instructional Design that Soars: Shaping What You Know Into Classes That Inspire
By Guila Muir, 2013
ID from planning to delivery in just 10 short chapters. An easy-to-read non-academic book containing worksheets, templates and checklists. This edition is suitable for beginners, and addresses a broad audience of educators, HR managers, and small business owners.
ID Classics
These books are among my favorites as classic works on course design and e-Learning. Some of them are new, others were written 10–15 years ago, yet they still make great reading.
11. The Essentials of Instructional Design: Connecting Fundamental Principles with Process and Practice, Third Edition.
By Abbie Brown, Timothy D. Green, 2015
‘The Essentials’ provides novice instructional designers with an overview of key procedures including audience/task analysis, needs and objectives analysis, organization of the learning environment, learner evaluation, etc. Here you can find a variety of approaches to each step. Easily digestible, yet comprehensive.
12. Revolutionize Learning & Development: Performance and Innovation Strategy for the Information Age. 1st Edition
By Clark N. Quinn, 2014
This book introduces new techniques to training environments. Major changes may be overwhelming for practitioners, yet there’s always room for perfection. Learn more about the concepts of research-based frameworks, performance support, informal learning, etc. A source of inspiration for innovators!
13. ISD From the Ground Up: A No-Nonsense Approach to Instructional Design Paperback
By Chuck Hodell, 2011
This work focuses on Instructional Systems Design (ISD) and the classic approach to course authoring. Basics of ISD, ADDIE, lesson plans, tips, and more! A plethora of guidelines and best practices that will benefit beginners and experts alike.
14. The Online Teaching Survival Guide: Simple and Practical Pedagogical Tips. 2nd Edition
By Judith V. Boettcher, Rita-Marie Conrad, 2016
This handy reference book builds on an overview of theory-powered practices for e-Learning. The key takeaways from this work include the use of technology in online teaching, tailored pedagogical tips, insights into latest cognition research. Highly recommended to novice e-teachers!
15. e-Learning and the Science of Instruction: Proven Guidelines for Consumers and Designers of Multimedia Learning. 3rd Edition
By Ruth C. Clark, Richard E. Mayer, 2011
A must-read for instructors engaged in online teaching and e-Learning, ‘The Science of Instruction’ builds on evidence-based findings and practical guidelines. Complex concepts are explained in a clear fashion, making the book accessible to both ID experts and aspiring students.
16. e-Learning by Design. 2nd Edition
By William Horton, 2011
A comprehensive e-Learning handbook addressing the modern world of ID, social learning, mobile learning, games, and beyond. A down-to-earth resource that helps trainers to develop meaningful classes, create tests and assessments, and craft simulations and individualized programs. Clear language, succinct style!
17. First Principles of Instruction. 1st Edition
By M. David Merril, 2012
The book advocates the student-oriented approach (as opposed to content-oriented), and offers proprietary concepts like the ‘Pebble-in-the-Pond’ instructional design model. The e3 ID Checklist is a great benchmark for assessing existing instructional programs and making changes on the fly.
18. About Face: The Essentials of Interaction Design
By Alan Cooper, Robert Reimann, David Cronin, Christopher Noessel, 2014
‘About Face’ comes high on the heels of the technology shift we’ve been witnessing in the past decade. Design for mobile platforms and touch interfaces, interactions, collaboration tools, and a goal-directed methodology are unveiled in this highly relevant empirical work.
19. Design for Information: An Introduction to the Histories, Theories, and Best Practices Behind Effective Information Visualizations
By Isabel Meirelles, 2013
The book provides an ample overview of historic and up-to-date visual solutions employed in information delivery. A well-structured source for graphic designers and course authors that spans cognition, perception, and computer interaction, and suggests smart engagement and instruction techniques.
20. Immersive Learning: Designing for Authentic Practice
By Koreen Olbrish Pagano, 2013
Koreen Olbrish Pagano’s text leverages immersive learning techniques to bring maximum value to academia and workplaces. The books describes how instructional designers can manage and channel learners’ cognitive experiences, elicit feedback and map out short-term and long-term consequences. Highly recommended!
Practical course authoring
This set of books will provide you with basic steps towards successful course authoring.
21. The New Art and Science of Teaching: More Than Fifty New Instructional Strategies for Academic Success.
By Robert J. Marzano, 2017
This work builds on the three pillars of effective instruction: students must get relevant material and constant feedback, and have their psychological needs met. ‘The New Art’ gives full strategic guidance and practical advice on efficient teaching and course authoring.
22. The Accidental Instructional Designer: Learning Design for the Digital Age
By Cammy Bean, 2014
A fresh view of e-Learning, basics of course design, scenarios, interactivity, and visual design. The work is more suitable for beginners, or as the author puts it, accidental instructional designers. What to do and what to avoid in this soon-to-be-classic handbook.
23. Designing Successful e-Learning, Michael Allen’s Online Learning Library: Forget What You Know About Instructional Design and Do Something Interesting. 1st Edition
By Michael W. Allen, 2007
This collection of e-Learning techniques will help you achieve specific educational objectives through motivation and smart design. Based on theory and experience, Michael Allen suggests you do something to stand out, and reap the benefits. The book tells you how!
24. Streamlined ID: A Practical Guide to Instructional Design. 1st Edition
By Miriam Larson, Barbara B. Lockee, 2013
The book unveils the basics of ID through the prism of ADDIE. An ideal reference for streamlined course authoring, this text caters to a variety of pedagogical approaches: Instructivist, Constructivist, and Connectivist. Every chapter highlights key concepts and provides additional assignments.
25. Ten Steps to Complex Learning: A Systematic Approach to Four-Component Instructional Design. 2nd Edition
By Jeroen J.G. van Merriënboer, Paul A. Kirschner, 2012
A no-nonsense work on instructional technology that covers the design of edu games, social learning media, neuroscience, etc. ‘Ten Steps’ outlines the course roadmap from training problem to solution. A reference book for ID practitioners from all walks of life!
26. How to Personalize Learning: A Practical Guide for Getting Started and Going Deeper. 1st Edition
By Barbara A. Bray, Kathleen A. McClaskey, 2016
This book covers the different skills of an Instructional Designer, ideas for personalization, gaining attention and knowledge retention, effective writing, smart visual design and well-weighed interactivity. All these concepts rendered in easy clear language. This work is a genuine pleasure to read!
27. Telling Ain’t Training: Updated, Expanded, Enhanced. 2nd Edition
By Harold D. Stolovitch, Erica J. Keeps, 2011
The authors highlight the importance of pure fun and interactivity. The book distinguishes between various types of knowledge and lays out the key motivating factors for learners. This work is enriched with quizzes, visuals and short summaries for better understanding.
28. Best Practices in Engaging Online Learners Through Active and Experiential Learning Strategies (Best Practices in Online Teaching and Learning)
By Stephanie Smith Budhai, Ke’Anna Skipwith, 2016
This book blends active and experiential approaches, including social media integration, gamification, scenario-based courses, etc. The authors present guidelines for peer-learning and collaboration in the web-based classroom and beyond. Efficient goal-driven learning tools and best practices in this book.
29. The Blended Course Design Workbook: A Practical Guide
By Kathryn E. Linder, 2016
This is a practical work aimed at blended classroom teachers. A friendly resource that delivers instructions, tools, and templates that will help you on the road from brick-and-mortar towards the shiny flipped classroom. A step-by-step guide to blended course design.
30. Instructional Design-Step by Step: Nine Easy Steps for Designing Lean, Effective, and Motivational Instruction
By PhD John S. Hoffman, 2013
This work avoids abstract preaching and gets right to the essence of practical design. An A-to-Z guide on crafting insightful materials of varying complexity and target audience. ‘Instructional Design’ makes light reading and empowers you with some great ID tricks.
Visuals & UX Design
A bunch of resources on User Experience, Visual Design and good-looking courses.
31. Sketching User Experiences: Getting the Design Right and the Right Design (Interactive Technologies). 1st Edition
By Bill Buxton, 2017
The presented work covers a wide range of UX issues, from general sketching and early prototyping to mobile technology, smart devices, and more. ‘Sketching User Experiences’ includes a handful of case studies, exercises, and projects to showcase the author’s methods.
32. Visual Design Solutions: Principles and Creative Inspiration for Learning Professionals. 1st Edition
By Connie Malamed, 2015
‘Visual Design Graphics’ provides a bunch of ideas for further improving the visual side of your e-Learning courses and modules. Dive into the book to learn more about better organization of screen objects, working with images, typography and imagery.
33. Visual Language for Designers: Principles for Creating Graphics that People Understand
By Connie Malamed, 2011
An earlier work by Connie Malamed, this guide features insights into visual design, and a host of how-tos. Organizing graphics, highlighting relevant information, thingification of abstract ideas, optimal expression of visual complexity, and more in ‘Visual Language for Designers’.
34. The Non-Designer’s Design Book. 4th Edition
By Robin Williams, 2015
For 20+ years, Robin Williams has taught readers how to design professional-looking courses. The 4th edition of ‘The Non-Designer’s Design Book’ adds more practical tips, touches upon the basics of typography, and includes an array of quizzes and exercises.
35. Graphic Design for Nondesigners: Essential Knowledge, Tips, and Tricks, Plus 20 Step-by-Step Projects for the Design Novice
By Tony Seddon, Jane Waterhouse, Rick Landers, 2009
The book features twenty step-by-step design instructions for everything: websites, T-shirts, or training courses… This work is pretty general, yet it speaks volumes to non-designers looking to learn a thing or two about space, color, types, and other visual elements.
Video Production
e-Learning video tricks, general recommendations and equipment tips.
36. Rapid Video Development for Trainers: How to Create Learning Videos Fast and Affordably
By Jonathan Halls, 2012
This all-around tutorial involves both the theory and practice of creating instructive high-quality videos. Focusing on cost-efficient solutions, the author explains how to edit and publish video for best results, and accomplish maximum visibility and ROI with a simple 12-point plan.
37. Creating Video for Teachers and Trainers: Producing Professional Video with Amateur Equipment 1st Edition
By Tim Spannaus, 2012
Tim Spannaus has come up with some best practices in instructional video. Plan, design and perform outstanding video projects with the use of cost-efficient software. Evidence-based guidelines, plus tips and tricks for telling video stories in the classroom and online.
38. E-Learning with Camtasia Studio
By David B. Demyan, 2014
Efficient screencasting with Camtasia is no rocket science, or so we learn from this nifty handbook. You’ll find out how to create project plans, develop storyboards, grab video footage, publish video as-is or as LMS content, add quizzes, and more.
39. How to Shoot Video That Doesn’t Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro. 1st Edition
By Steve Stockman, 2011
This guide does not specifically target e-Learning, but it’s a pretty cool compendium of video shooting tricks. Unless you think hitting ‘record’ and letting the camera do the rest might actually work, dive into the book for battle-hardened video recording tips.
40. The Visual Story: Creating the Visual Structure of Film, TV and Digital Media. 2nd Edition
By Bruce Block (Author), 2007
Ever thought of video authoring from a filmmaker’s perspective? This work is your chance. ‘The Visual Story’ presents a clear outlook on story/script structure and visual composition of multimedia items. Learn how visual components can bolster your ID experience!
Course Scenario How-tos
Sources of advice on scenario-based training, and practical tips.
41. Scenario-based e-Learning: Evidence-Based Guidelines for Online Workforce Learning. 1st Edition
By Ruth C. Clark, Richard E. Mayer, 2012
‘Scenario-based e-Learning’ is a powerful source of reference for instructional designers. The ins and outs of scenarios employed in the workplace or in academia, with illustrative materials spanning all walks of life and industries. Find task-oriented instructional techniques inside!
42. Scenario-Based Learning: Using Stories To Engage e-Learners (Scenario-Based Learning, Volume 1)
By Ph.D. Ray Jimenez, 2009
Tell stories using off-the-shelf or bespoke scenarios, and design your own ideas. This book accumulates tons of valuable workouts and samples, plus a wealth of Scenario-Based Learning (SBL) tools and references. The author is a true expert in the field. Highly recommended!
43. Scenario Planning in Organizations: How to Create, Use, and Assess Scenarios
By Thomas J. Chermack, 2011
In Chermack’s book, one will find practical advice on business training. Discover a five-phase scenario planning system: from project preparation to assessment. Once you are done with the set of steps, proceed to the complexities and workarounds to get the big picture.
44. Case Scenarios for Teaching and Learning Social Work Practice (Teaching Social Work).
By Shirley M. Haulotte, Jane A. Kretzschmar, 2011
Any issues with new in-class activity scenarios? Browse this book for advice. 40 cases imbued with social work knowledge. A variety of settings and challenges matched with solid assessment techniques and intervention plans. Worthy reading for ID specialists.
45. Scenario Based Learning: A Better Methodology of Teaching English and Mathematics
By Navnath Tupe, 2013
This book highlights English and Math studies in primary school, and the way SBL can help to boost knowledge acquisition and retention. The work in question will benefit researchers, educators, administrators, parents, and students. Clear concise style. Good reading.
Project Management
PM in Instructional Design and beyond. Industry-specific projects and general tools
46. Project Managing E-Learning: A Handbook for Successful Design, Delivery and Management. 1st Edition
By Maggie McVay Lynch, John Roecker, 2007
The book offers well-weighed advice in managing e-Learning projects for academic and corporate environments. It guides managers through the entire project cycle from conception to delivery, and factors in risk management, performance, and potential roadblocks on the road to success.
47. Project Management for Trainers. 2nd Edition
By Lou Russell, 2016
This work is a handy reference for PMs and trainers. It covers project goals, scope, restrictions, schedule, milestones, stakeholders and pretty much everything related to the process. The book also highlights the importance of post-project assessment to facilitate future developments.
48. Effective Project Management: Traditional, Agile, Extreme. 7th Edition
By Robert K. Wysocki, 2013
Unanimously dubbed ‘the PM standard for trainers’, this book has undergone multiple editions to address the evolving requirements. In the 7th edition, it examines traditional and agile methodologies, and refers to a companion website packed with exercises and PowerPoint slides.
49. Project Management: Tools and Trade-offs. 1st Edition
By Ted Klastorin, 2011
‘Project Management’ unveils the essentials of cross-industry PM and focuses on tradeoffs in critical project environments. The book offers the right balance of theory and practice, takes on an analytical approach, and includes Excel templates on an attached CD.
50. Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager: A FranklinCovey Title
By Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, James Wood, 2015
This book explains the basics of PM in a simple concise manner and provides relevant references to PMBOK and other project management pillars. This is a practical handbook free from academic veneer. A good fit for novice and intermediate project managers.
ADDIE
Learn to Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement and Evaluate with a bunch of nifty handbooks.
51. Rapid Instructional Design: Learning ID Fast and Right. 3rd Edition
By George M. Piskurich, 2015
An industry standard guide to crafting effective and instructive materials. ‘Rapid Instructional Design’ unfolds the ADDIE model from analysis to evaluation, unlocks popular shortcuts for rapid design, provides real-life examples, and investigates methods for the booming trends of instruction.
52. Instructional Design: The ADDIE Approach
By Robert Maribe Branch, 2011
This well-written book focuses on ADDIE principles, and builds on sound theory and research. A good fit for intermediate course authors, yet a little too general for seasoned IDs. The book constitutes a handy reference source for e-Learning specialists.
53. ISD From The Ground Up: A No-Nonsense Approach to Instructional Design. 4th Edition
By Chuck Hodell, 2016
Chuck Hodell’s writing helps you better understand ADDIE and its significance in course design. The book brings a fresh outlook on objectives, lesson plans, designs, focus groups, etc. The 4th edition adds new chapters and a revamped glossary.
54. Designing Effective Instruction. 7th Edition
By Gary R. Morrison, Steven M. Ross, Howard K. Kalman, Jerrold E. Kemp, 2012
This book follows the principles of the classic ADDIE methodology, and integrates success stories of ID practitioners with many years of experience and great scenarios under their belt. Valuable discussions of learning styles, cognitive procedures, explanations on sequencing, etc. Highly recommended!
55. The ISD Handbook: Everything You Should Know About Instructional Systems Design, But Didn’t Know to Ask! Kindle Edition
By Garry Neale, 2016
A solid foundation for studies in Instructional Systems Design along with a comprehensive overview of ID basics and terminology. Check out the book for information on the ADDIE approach, and use it as an initial teaching tool and reference guide.
Agile/SAM
Books on Agile methodologies and the Successive Approximation Model in learning.
56. Leaving ADDIE for SAM: An Agile Model for Developing the Best Learning Experiences
By Michael W. Allen, Richard Sites, 2012
In this book, Michael Allen asserts that ADDIE has to give way to newer methodologies. As a replacement, the book advocates SAM (Successive Approximation Model) and the Savvy Start concept. Delve into this work for contemporary design theory and efficient teaching techniques.
57. Leaving ADDIE for SAM Field Guide: Guidelines and Templates for Developing the Best Learning Experiences
By Richard Sites, Angel Green, 2014
The practical sequel of ‘Leaving ADDIE for SAM’, written by Michael Allen’s coauthor Richard Sites and Angel Green, it provides the tools and templates to keep SAM rolling. An excellent handbook for creating courses in compliance with evolving e-Learning demands.
58. Agility Shift: Creating Agile and Effective Leaders, Teams, and Organizations
By Pamela Meyer, 2015
‘Agility Shift’ by Pamela Meyer puts together various application fields, IT and non-IT. The book shows project managers how to build an agile ecosystem in the volatile world of information. This work offers actionable strategies and practical advice on going agile.
59. Agile Project Management: Creating Innovative Products. 2nd Edition
By Jim Highsmith, 2009
Another general PM book that provides a substantial overview of agile methods and goals, performance management techniques, and leader skills. Read this work and learn how to optimize the five stages of an agile project: Envision, Speculate, Explore, Adapt, and Close.
60. Agile Methodology for Developing & Measuring Learning: Training Development for Today’s World
By Kaliym A. Islam, 2013
This agile-centered work is tailored to individual training needs. It introduces the reader to flexible development techniques, and helps create self-organizing teams and split larger arrays of material into smaller chunks and multiple iterations. Also, you can consult this book for self-assessment tips.
Child and Teenage Learning
Engagement techniques and theories applied to young learners. Early development, teenage training, etc.
61. How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character
By Paul Tough, 2013
In his book, Paul Tough maintains that success has little to do with formal knowledge. It’s personality that matters. According to Paul, perseverance and curiosity must be the decisive factors to cultivate in modern schools. Makes interesting reading!
62. Hacking Engagement: 50 Tips & Tools To Engage Teachers and Learners Daily (Hack Learning Series Book 7). Kindle Edition
By James Alan Sturtevant, 2016
‘Hacking Engagement’ provides creative ways to engage learners, tips and tools that will help you to step away from traditional approaches and think outside the box. Although the book does not specifically target child education, it’s a cool practical reference for teachers.
63. Secrets of the Teenage Brain: Research-Based Strategies for Reaching and Teaching Today’s Adolescents
By Sheryl G. Feinstein, Eric Jensen, 2013
Teenagers can be a handful when you don’t know how to deal with them. This book unravels the mysteries of the teenage mind and offers well-chosen stories and research in adolescence and its issues. Learn more about teenage psychology and education!
64. The Exceptional Child: Inclusion in Early Childhood Education. 8th Edition
By K. Eileen Allen, Glynnis Edwards Cowdery, 2014
In ‘The Exceptional Child’, the authors discuss key approaches to children with special needs. The book is clearly written, well-structured, lightweight and easy to use. Spot-on information that teachers and caregivers may use to build appropriate learning environments for exceptional kids.
65. A Guidance Approach for the Encouraging Classroom. 6th Edition
By Dan Gartrell, 2013
The ‘Guidance Approach’ focuses on the ages between 3 and 8 years, and serves as a reference book for education professionals. The first part explores early childhood learning, and the second part provides tips on shaping up an engaging classroom. Worthy reading for pedagogues!
Adult Education
A few works on helping grownups imbibe knowledge in the most efficient manner possible.
66. Leading for Powerful Learning: A Guide for Instructional Leaders
By Angela Breidenstein, Kevin Fahey, Carl Glickman, Frances Hensley, 2012
This book blends theory with best practices to formulate a vision of next-gen education. The practical part describes a harmonious adult learning framework, and involves a variety of tools and protocols employed by leading schools, districts, departments, faculty members, etc.
67. Designing Training and Instructional Programs for Older Adults (Human Factors & Aging)
By Sara J. Czaja, Joseph Sharit, 2012
This work provides valuable insights into older adults’ learning, and focuses on existing and prospect training programs, retention and knowledge transfer, and e-Learning and multimedia formats in elder perception. Implications of learning theories and adaptation of popular methodologies in this text.
68. Teaching Adults: A Practical Guide for New Teachers (Jossey-Bass Higher and Adult Education). 1st Edition
By Ralph G. Brockett, 2015
In this book, readers will find general teaching frameworks, the author’s four keys to smart instruction, an in-depth analysis of unique challenges in adult learning, motivation techniques, and a means of dealing with difficult audiences. Well-written and full of practical wisdom!
69. How to Teach Adults: Plan Your Class, Teach Your Students, Change the World, Expanded Edition (Jossey-Bass Higher and Adult Education). 1st Edition
By Dan Spalding, 2014
A hands-on guidebook on instructing grownup learners, this work is full of real-life examples, course design tips, lesson plan recommendations, suggestions on developing your teacher image, and more. A great fit for managers, teachers, instructional designers, course authors and even parents.
70. Planning Programs for Adult Learners: A Practical Guide. 3rd Edition
By Rosemary S. Caffarella, Sandra Ratcliff Daffron, Ronald M. Cervero, 2013
This well-structured guide includes ample information on every aspect of the adult education process, from training objectives to delivery methods. The book includes a multitude of program planning models, a ton of exercises and examples, foundational knowledge of program planning, etc.
e-Learning in Business
Your breadcrumbs in the forest of business training: a few relevant books on corporate e-Learning.
71. Michael Allen’s Guide to E-Learning: Building Interactive, Fun, and Effective Learning Programs for Any Company. 1st Edition
By Michael W. Allen, 2003
Industry influencer Michael Allen rightly reprimands ineffective learning techniques and provides practical advice on creating great-value training solutions. The book lays out down-to-earth, precise, witty approaches to technology-assisted learning for business executives, turning them into keen e-Learning investors.
72. Training That Delivers Results: Instructional Design That Aligns with Business Goals
By Dick Handshaw, 2014
This work proposes a new way to educate employees and match learning materials with business goals. The author empowers IDs with a proactive attitude to define problems and develop interventions, analyze performance issues, build consensus and evaluate the outcomes.
73. Employee Training & Development. 5th Edition
By Raymond Noe, 2017
The book covers the fundamentals of employee training, and efficient learning techniques for the contemporary workplace. Split into five parts, this work speaks of context, design, needs assessment, methodologies, and career issues. The text is easy to read and understand. Big kudos!
74. The Six Disciplines of Breakthrough Learning: How to Turn Training and Development into Business Results
By Roy V. H. Pollock, Andy Jefferson, Calhoun W. Wick, 2015
Like the name suggests, ‘The Six Disciplines’ helps business trainers, HR managers and other decision-makers boost their education programs. A full overview of existing research, insights, and goals. Focus on ROI and clever ways to decrease time-to-market and learning curves.
75. Learning to Succeed: Rethinking Corporate Education in a World of Unrelenting Change. Kindle Edition
By Jason Wingard, 2015
Jason Wingard makes the reader re-think corporate training polices in the view of ‘unrelenting change’. The book helps develop a Contiguous Integration of Learning and Strategy (CILS), introduce thought leadership, tackle budgetary issues and build a unanimously accepted learning ecosystem.
Blended Learning
Pick one of these works to learn how to blend online courses with brick-and-mortar schooling for best results.
76. More Than Blended Learning: Creating world-class learning interventions. Kindle Edition
By Clive Shepherd, 2015
Leveraging case studies, storytelling and thorough analysis, Clive describes how blended learning (BL) can reshape the modern educational landscape. The ‘More Than’ approach focuses on adult learning interventions and ensures the outcomes trigger positive repercussions in the real world.
77. The Online Learning Idea Book, Volume Two: Proven Ways to Enhance Technology-Based and Blended Learning. 2nd Edition
By Patti Shank, 2011
The book delivers specific examples of inspirational educators, worthy course materials, great tips and tricks in e-Learning design and development, synchronous, asynchronous and self-paced learning, and more. A spot-on resource to help you author outstanding blended courses within a reasonable timeframe.
78. Blended Learning in Action: A Practical Guide Toward Sustainable Change. 1st Edition
By Catlin R. Tucker, Tiffany Wycoff, Jason T. Green, 2016
The book shows the advantages of blended learning as opposed to traditional instruction. In this comprehensive work, readers will find breakdowns of the most effective classroom setups, tips for leaders, ideas for personalization, suggestions on device policies, and more.
79. Blended: Using Disruptive Innovation to Improve Schools. 1st Edition
By Michael B. Horn, Heather Staker, Clayton M. Christensen, 2014
A field guide to the blended model, this book unveils recommendations for implementing BL in K-12 classrooms. Learn how to mitigate related risks, find answers to key questions, and get an implementation plan for creating student-centered environments in your institution.
80. Blended Learning in Grades 4–12: Leveraging the Power of Technology to Create Student-Centered Classrooms. 1st Edition
By Catlin R. Tucker, 2012
In this guide, Catlin Tucker shares a vision of blended learning for schoolkids. The author provides a bunch of tools to build a student-centered classroom from scratch. Also, learn about some tricks for integrating new technology into traditional infrastructures.
Education and Psychology
Efficient knowledge acquisition without cognitive load, empowering students with confidence and soft skills, and more, in my selection of edu psychology books.
81. Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All
By Tom Kelley, David Kelley, 2013
This book radiates the optimism and confidence craved by creative people, designers of all kinds, course authors, and other content makers. The authors touch upon the techniques that boost our creative potential and allow us to innovate and be more productive. Inspiring reading!
82. Bringing Out the Best in People
By Aubrey Daniels, 1999
This book may be your life-changer if you tune in to its core conception. Learn more about behaviors and their consequences, battle-hardened motivational methods, innovation and creativity. A great fit for managers, parents, instructors, supervisors, business owners, and anyone else.
83. Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning. 1st Edition
By Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, Mark A. McDaniel, 2014
‘Make It Stick’ helps you structure learning and assessment processes, and boost knowledge retention. Appealing to students and teachers, the book advocates lifelong learning and self-improvement. Also, find enclosed 27 pages of endnotes on scientific studies in this research-based work.
84. How to Turn Learners On… Without Turning Them Off: Ways to Ignite Interest in Learning. 3rd Edition
By Robert F. Mager, 1997
This text is aimed at boosting student motivation and positive attitudes. In the book, the readers will find out how to cut down on negative attitudes and maximize the pure joy of learning, reduce frustration and cognitive load, develop desirable outcomes, etc.
85. Educational Psychology. 12th Edition
By Anita Woolfolk, 2012
‘Educational Psychology’ is a clearly written book encompassing theory and practice. While reading, you will discover a plethora of examples, lesson samples, case studies, and practical tips from education gurus. Valuable insights into student psychology and cognitive disciplines! Highly recommended.
86. Psychology for the Classroom: E-Learning
By John Woollard, 2011
What are the psychological implications of technology-assisted learning? Delve into this book for the answers. Useful e-Learning analysis, interpretations of conventional theories, discourses on virtual learning environments, social networking, personalization, e-security, avatars, blended learning techniques, and more!
87. The Art of Mental Training: A Guide to Performance Excellence (Collector’s Edition)
By DC Gonzalez, 2013
‘The Art of Mental Training’ provides the basics of performance-driven instruction along with multiple real-life stories from the author’s impressive background. The book helps you unlock your true potential, transform negative energy into confidence, adjust focus, improve visualization techniques, etc.
88. The Living Classroom: Teaching and Collective Consciousness (Suny Series in Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology)
By Christopher M. Bache, 2008
A fundamental work on instruction and transpersonal psychology, this book researches the phenomenon of collective consciousness in the classroom. Juxtaposing science and personal stories, the author speaks of ‘learning fields’ and forms of collective ‘id’, and provides great practical advice.
89. Positive Psychology in the Elementary School Classroom (Norton Books in Education). 1st Edition
By Patty O’Grady, 2013
A compendium of positive psychology factors described and explained in elementary school applications. Learn how to focus on the opportunities of differentiated learning, and, ultimately, on the well-being of children! The book encourages social awareness, positive relationships, and self-motivation.
90. Activities for Teaching Positive Psychology: A Guide for Instructor. 1st Edition
By Jeffrey J. Froh, Acacia C. Parks, 2012
This book by two leading experts rolls out a list of interactive classroom activities, covers classical topics of existing psychology textbooks, and emphasizes hands-on experience. ‘Positive Psychology’ will be of great interest to teachers, graduate and undergraduate students, and more.
Gamification
Five select works on gamification in contemporary e-Learning and traditional classroom.
91. Gamify: How Gamification Motivates People to Do Extraordinary Things.
By Biran Burke, 2014
‘Gamify’ by Biran Burke unravels the mystery of gamification in action. Burke spots the areas where business and game objectives overlap. The book describes games as a powerful tool to encourage people to achieve more, modify behaviors, and develop new skills.
92. Actionable Gamification – Beyond Points, Badges, and Leaderboards
By Yu-kai Chou, 2015
In this well-paced insightful work, Chou outlines eight motivating forces – the ‘core drives’ – and provides recommendations on how to use them in learning projects. Each core drive comes with a few related techniques, an exercise, and a reference to Chou’s website.
93. Even Ninja Monkeys Like to Play: Gamification, Game Thinking & Motivational Design
By Andrzej Marczewski, 2015
A handbook for game thinking that unlocks multiple theories and practices of gamification. A must-read for project managers, instructors, and anyone interested in reshaping their business or academic training environments. Well-written and informative, with tons of practical wisdom and subtle humor.
94. The Gamification of Learning and Instruction: Game-based Methods and Strategies for Training and Education. 1st Edition
By Karl M. Kapp, 2012
A bible of gamification, this work inspired many to become ‘ludomaniacs’, but in a good way. Karl Kapp starts with the essentials (the role of rewarding and behavior changing) and leads up to authentic understanding of Game and Gamers.
95. Gamestorming: A Playbook for Innovators, Rulebreakers, and Changemakers
By Dave Gray, Sunni Brown, James Macanufo, 2010.
The book spans over 80 games aimed at improved communication, team collaboration, and joint creativity. This work will help the reader overcome conflicts and boost engagement, assist understanding by role-playing customers, employ simulations and interactions, identify and remove bottlenecks, etc.
General Topics
Books on personal efficiency, self-promotion, leadership, building a professional portfolio, etc.
96. Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
By Simon Sinek, 2011
The book encourages people to become more inspired at work and inspire their colleagues and customers. Simon Sinek demonstrates what the world’s influencers do differently in terms of thinking, acting and communicating, and makes us believe we can do even better.
97. Self-Promotion for Introverts: The Quiet Guide to Getting Ahead (Business Books)
By Nancy Ancowitz, 2009
Many of us are introverts. Is this a stumbling block on the road to success? Turns out it’s not. This book helps introverts tap into their strengths, speak up about their achievements, and climb the career ladder while gaining well-deserved recognition.
98. Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change, Second Edition
By Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler, 2013
From page one of ‘Influencer’ you hop on a worldwide tour spanning the U.S., Thailand and South Africa, where you witness seemingly ‘insignificant’ people making game-changing improvements. Leverage the power of influence and dare to feel better with this inspirational book.
99. Analyzing Performance Problems: Or, You Really Oughta Wanna–How to Figure out Why People Aren’t Doing What They Should Be, and What to do About It
By Robert F. Mager, Peter Pipe, 1997
‘Analyzing Performance Problems’ is a step-by-step guide for resolving performance issues. All you have to do is identify the roots of an issue, apply ‘fast fixes’ where possible, and work out economically feasible solutions. An insightful book for a broad audience!
100. The Personal Efficiency Program: How to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed and Win Back Control of Your Work
By Kerry Gleeson, 2008
This is a practical handbook on self-organization, time management and efficient execution. By reading this book, you will learn how to stop procrastinating or feeling overwhelmed, and start enjoying your work life and career. Procrastinator-tested 🙂 Makes nice reading!
A Final Word on the Best Instructional Design Books
I hope this far from exhaustive list of learning-centered publications will help you get through your studies or instructional design challenges. Feel free to add more suggestions.
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