Instructional Design Project: The Rehearsal Model
Module Overview
This project demonstrates a performance-based approach to instructional design, using rehearsal as a structured learning strategy.
The module focuses on developing communication skills in group collaboration settings through scenario-based practice and reflection.
Rehearsal As Iterative Learning
My project introduces the concept of “rehearsal as iterative learning,” positioning repeated practice and polishing as central to skill development. This approach bridges theatre-based pedagogy with instructional design, emphasizing performance, feedback, and reflection as core components of effective learning experiences.
Learning Objectives
- Learners will demonstrate effective communication strategies in a group project setting through structured rehearsal and performance-based scenarios.
- Learners will apply principles of active listening, clear messaging, and tone awareness in simulated collaborative situations.
- Learners will evaluate and refine their communication through guided reflection.
Instructional Design Approach
This module is designed using a performance-based instructional approach that emphasizes rehearsal as a structured learning strategy. Drawing from drama-based pedagogy and experiential learning models, the design moves learners through a sequence of concept introduction, modeled examples, guided rehearsal, independent practice, and reflection.
Rather than treating communication as theoretical knowledge, the module positions it as a skill developed through iteration, feedback, and performance.
Design Decisions
- Focused concept delivery– Content is intentionally limited to three core principles to reduce cognitive load and increase retention.
- Use of contrasting examples– Ineffective vs. effective communication is presented to support pattern recognition and applied understanding.
- Rehearsal as structured practice– Learners engage in scripted and adapted communication exercises prior to assessment.
- Authentic scenario design– The performance task reflects a realistic group project conflict to promote transfer of learning.
- Multiple modalities for response– Learners may respond in written, audio, or video formats, supporting flexibility and engagement.
- Reflection integrated into assessment cycle– Reflection prompts encourage learners to evaluate and refine their communication strategies.
Module Structure
- Introduction to communication challenges in group work
- Core concept development (active listening, messaging, tone)
- Modeled examples (ineffective vs. effective communication)
- Guided rehearsal (scripted and adapted practice)
- Independent performance task (scenario-based assessment)
- Reflection and self-evaluation
