Gagne's Theory

Robert Gagne's theory of instruction is comprised of three principles: taxonomy of learning outcomes, conditions of learning, and nine events of instruction. Gagne asserts that specific learning conditions critically influence the learning outcomes. In addition, special care must be given to the external conditions during instruction, known as the nine events of instruction.

Nine Events of Instruction:

Gain attention Inform learners of the objectives Build on prior knowledge Present the stimulus Provide guidance Elicit performance Provide feedback Assess performance Enhance retention and transfer

Implications for Adult Learning:

Using Gagne's nine instructional events is good way to plan adult training. Keep lecture time short and spend more time on solving the problem by making the training active and relevant.

Use this handout for planning your training programs. (PDF Document)

Resources:

Conditions of Learning ~ http://tip.psychology.org/gagne.html

Robert Gagne's Instructional Design Approach ~ www.gsu.edu/~mstswh/courses/it7000/papers/robert.htm

How to Plan Effective Training Sessions ~ www.notrain-nogain.org/Man/TtT/mich.asp