At some point in the evolution of instructional design, I like to imagine that a set of particularly wise architects wondered, “What would happen if we just use the same template for every course we build?” Every learner would have the exact same educational experience and be bombarded with the same methods of completing the course. Development would be simplified within the courses and instructional designers would love quick turnaround. It would be glorious! I like to believe that after the resulting chaos, those mythical architects were struck with divine knowledge and humility.

Many people recognize that each person prefers different learning styles and techniques. Learning styles group common ways that people learn. Everyone has a mix of learning styles. Some people may find that they have a dominant style of learning, with far less use of the other styles.