Theory Name: Instructional Transaction Theory

Authors: Merrill, M. David

Associated Learning Theory
Cognitive Learning Theory

Model Description
ITT is synthesis oriented. An instructional transaction is all of the interactions necessary for a student to acquire a particular kind of knowledge or skill. p.400

Specification of Theory
(a) Goals and preconditions
ITT is intended to foster almost any kind of learning in the cognitive domain. p.398

(b) Principles
Knowledge objects- provide a way to represent knowledge and are used to build a set of transaction shells (instructional algorithms) to teach it. Identify, execute and interpret transactions.

(c) Condition of learning
Keeps the learning process efficient because of clearly defined learning objectives/goals. The instructional design process is through automation and the simulation design is also automated. You want to combine simulations with tutorial instruction and give students the power of exploration.

(d) Required media
Databases. Computers. Students are presented with a record containing subject-matter content and the program presents the students with several options the student must select from. Then it brings you to a new frame depending on answer.

(e) Role of facilitator
The instructor will scaffold the information. The instructor is the guide and the student is encouraged to learn on his/her own.

(f) Instructional strategies
1. Present the goal of the instruction
2. Provide an open-ended learning environment

- Simulation

3. Identify transaction: for learning the name, location and function of parts of a device

o Presentation
o Practice
o Immediate feedback
o Score
o Sampling with replacement

4. Execute transaction

o Hands off demonstration
o Practice
o Feedback
o Guidance

5. Interpret transaction: for learning to explain, predict, troubleshoot

o Presentation
o Practice
o Control panel
o Guidance
o Explanation

(g) Assessment method
The student “practices.” The instructor provides many situations that the student must problem solve to find a solution to the situation.

Formative Research & Application
(a) Tested context: Business
(b) Research method: Qualitative
(c) Research description: Case Studies.
(d) Resources