What is the Instructional Challenge?

Is instruction needed? If so, what must be addressed? We answer those questions by conducting a needs analysis. When conducting a needs analysis for an instructional product, instructional designers aim to identify and assess the gap between the current state (what learners know and can do) and the desired state (what learners should know and be able to do). The needs analysis determines whether an instructional solution is necessary and what problem the instruction must address. Below are key steps and considerations for conducting a needs analysis.

1. Define the Purpose and Scope:

Narrow your focus to a specific problem or performance gap that needs corrected.

2. Identify Target Audience:

Who needs your instructional product? If you find that more than one group needs training, focus on only one group for now. Later, with a different instructional product, you can address the other audience(s). One-size-fits-all does not work well in training. For example, when creating training for a new timekeeping system, a training course for employees would differ from a course for supervisors, even though there will be some overlap in content.

3. Gather Data:

Collect data through various methods to understand the current situation.

4. Analyze Data:

Analyze the data you’ve gathered to identify gaps and discrepancies between the current and desired states. Look for patterns and trends that reveal the root causes of the problem.

5. Determine Training Needs:

Based on your analysis, determine if instruction is required to address a performance gap or other problem. Analyze the problem to identify a specific problem that needs corrected.

6. Set Learning Objectives:

If training is deemed necessary, define clear and measurable learning objectives. Objectives should specify what learners should know or be able to do after completing the instruction. Objectives must be measurable. For example, it’s not enough to say “Learners will understand…” because that can’t be measured objectively. A measurable outcome would be, “Learners will demonstrate their understanding by completing a customer order within 5 minutes and with 95% accuracy.”

7. Consider Constraints and Resources:

Identify any constraints that may impact the design and implementation of the instructional product, such as budget, time, technology, and available resources.

8. Consult Subject Matter Experts:

Collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs) regarding the accuracy and relevance of proposed instructional content. Working with a SME provides good practice for work as an instructional designer.