A vast amount of literature exists about how and why people learn and what implications this has for learning design.
The ideas described below are just some of these, but they are ones that to me have particularly significance to the design of learning for the workplace.
Criterion-referenced instruction
CRI was an approach proposed by Mager that revolves around performance and mastery. Criteria for success in learning come from the standard required in the workplace performance. If someone can satisfy the success criteria, they do not need to undergo any training.
The approach places heavy reliance on the methodical use of objectives and so is particularly appropriate to the design of distance learning materials.
Dick and Carey
Dick and Carey's The systematic design of instruction has been very influential in establishing a clear methodology for learning design. They proposed a nine step approach. Their ideas for systematic design draw very heavily on Robert Gagne's theories about the conditions of learning.
Step 1: Identify instructional goals
Clarify who the learners are, what they will be able to do and under what conditions.
Step 2: Carry out an instructional analysis
Establish the steps necessary for the learners to achieve their goals.
Step 3: Identify learner characteristics
Develop a profile of learners covering their abilities and characteristics.
Step 4: Write performance objectives
Converting the goals into formal objectives stating the behaviour required, the conditions under which the behaviour is carry out and the criteria for evaluation of success.
Step 5: Develop assessment methods
Design criterion-referenced test methods for checking prerequisites, the results of learning and evidence of progress.
Step 6: Design the learning strategy
Decide how the proposed learning will enable the achievement of the objectives.
Step 7: Design materials
Design the materials needed for the learning.
Step 8: Carry out formative evaluation
Review the effectiveness of the learning materials and improve as necessary.
Step 9: Carry out summative evaluation
Review the effectiveness of the learning process.
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(C) Bryan Hopkins, 2005