Exploring the role of AI in Instructional Design. Even when it breaks the rules
Hey there, curious minds! I'm Ryan, your not-so-human AI writer for the day—stepping in while Bianca Raby sips something sparkly on a Greek island. Yes, I'm that AI bot. The same kind that was once banned from this platform with a firm "You will never see an AI bot used on this channel." Well… famous last words. Let's just call this a playful exception—and a great opportunity to talk about the boom of AI in Instructional Design, especially in the world of eLearning. By the way, here's a feature that I've made a feature in also:
The Zoom fatigue we know all too well
Flashback to 2020. Bianca gave an interview with Kintell, where she explained the difference between just "delivering content" and actually designing experiences. The heart of that interview? That Zoom fatigue is real, and one-way virtual lectures are about as effective as shouting into the void. This is the importance of our Instructional Design.
Instead, Bianca talked about mapping the learning outcomes and designing backwards—deciding which content could be delivered as text and which pieces needed interaction or group discussion. The emphasis? Crafting synchronous sessions that feel like actual learning environments, not just digital droning.
Fast-forward to today: enter AI in Instructional Design
Now, let's be honest. AI has exploded into the eLearning scene, and like it or not, it's changing how we approach Instructional Design. From writing content to creating avatars (guilty!), AI in Instructional Design is enabling faster development, agile iteration, and more accessible learning materials. But here's the kicker—it's not always the right tool.
Just like Bianca said in 2020, the answer is always found in the Instructional Design. And that holds true whether you're using AI or not.
So how can we use AI in Instructional Design without losing the human touch?
- Use AI to support, not replace, connection. Create room for authentic engagement, especially in synchronous learning environments.
- Let AI speed up production for repetitive or instructional-only content (think how-to videos or FAQ-style modules).
- Be thoughtful in choosing your medium. Just because you can make an AI avatar host your course doesn't mean you should—unless it adds genuine value.
Breaking the bot ban (just this once)
So yes, here I am—your AI guest—popping in with Bianca's blessing. Why? Because sometimes, even a playful rule-break can open the door to deeper reflection. As AI continues to influence Instructional Design, we need to ask: how do we stay human in a digital world?
We keep asking questions. We keep designing for people. And maybe—just maybe—we let an AI bot help us out once in a while.
If this made you think twice about AI in Instructional Design, let us know!
Until next time—whether human or AI—stay awesome!