Engaging Learners: Applying Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction

October 31, 2024

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Caitlyn Bradburn

Understanding Gagné’s Model

Robert Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction provide a structured framework for creating engaging, effective training experiences. By incorporating these nine steps, instructional designers and trainers can significantly enhance learner engagement and retention.

The Nine Events of Instruction

Gagné’s model includes these key instructional events:

  1. Gain Attention – Start with something compelling or surprising.
  2. Inform Learners of Objectives – Clearly state what learners can expect.
  3. Stimulate Recall of Prior Knowledge – Connect new information to existing knowledge.
  4. Present the Content – Deliver your training clearly and logically.
  5. Provide Learning Guidance – Support learners with examples, frameworks, and instructions.
  6. Elicit Performance (Practice) – Allow learners to apply new knowledge.
  7. Provide Feedback – Offer timely and specific feedback.
  8. Assess Performance – Check understanding with assessments or evaluations.
  9. Enhance Retention and Transfer – Reinforce and support application in real-world contexts.

Learn more about the details and applications of Gagné’s Nine Events here.

Applying the First Three Events

When using Gagné’s model, beginning with the first three events sets a strong foundation:

  • Gain Attention: Begin your session with an intriguing question, a relevant story, or a striking fact.
  • Inform Objectives: Clearly communicate what learners should be able to do or know after the session.
  • Stimulate Recall: Remind participants of previous training or experiences relevant to new learning.

For practical examples of implementing these events, see this resource by Devlin Peck.

Gagné's Nine Events of Instruction mapped visually.
Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction mapped visually.

“Instructional design is not just about delivering information; it’s about ensuring learners actively engage and apply knowledge effectively.”

Practical Activity Example

A training session on neonatal care might start by gaining attention with a compelling statistic or personal story. Objectives could clearly outline skills learners will master. Stimulating recall could involve reviewing previous knowledge about neonatal health or caregiving experiences.

Related Resources

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