Instructional Alchemy: Turning Ideas into Learning Adventures

Explore how to turn abstract learning goals into immersive experiences by identifying learner motivations, barriers, and values. Through hands-on techniques like the Compass Frames method and Artifact Table, you’ll learn to generate and refine innovative course concepts. We’ll also dive into storytelling, gamification, and world-building strategies that make learning feel like an adventure. Walk away with practical frameworks and the confidence to create learning experiences that learners don’t just complete but truly remember. 

In this session you will learn: 

• A structured framework for creative instructional design, including how to generate, prioritize, and refine course ideas  
• How to develop a compelling “big idea” or overarching concept that ties learning objectives into a cohesive and engaging narrative. 
• How to design courses that feel like a journey, using storytelling mechanics and engagement strategies from gaming and interactive media. 
• How to balance creativity with instructional effectiveness, ensuring that innovative design aligns with measurable learning outcomes.