AI-Enabled Instructional Design - Master AI Prompts for Effortless Learning Design

Imagine generating not just content but entire learning journeys—engaging scenarios, detailed outlines, and captivating storyboards—all powered by AI!

In this webinar, Archana Venkatesh, ELB Learning, discussed the specifics of prompt structuring, which is the key to unlocking Generative AI's full potential for crafting compelling learning experiences. She described AI as “your efficient assistant in the whole ID process.”

Archana also shared a few ways she’s currently using AI to help her with parts of the instructional design process:

1. A way to brainstorm content, such as engaging introductions, concise summaries, and illustrative examples—no blank page paralysis here!
2. Writing and editing assistance, such as simplifying complex topics, translating technical terms into accessible language, and more.
3. Asking AI to play the part of a reviewer/critic and suggest alternative approaches. 

5 Key Elements of Effective AI Prompt Structure

Archana took the audience through a prompt writing exercise, showing them how incorporating these five key elements into their prompts can yield the best results.

1. Clarity:

Bad Example: "Tell me about communication."

Good Example: "List three strategies for improving team communication in a virtual workplace."

The first prompt is too vague, while the example is clear and direct.

2. Context:

Bad Example: "Give me strategies for communication."

Good Example: "Based on the latest research in 2023, list three strategies for improving team communication in a virtual workplace."

Providing context ensures the AI has enough information to generate a relevant response.

3. Specificity:

Bad Example: "Make a presentation about remote work."

Good Example: "Create a five-slide PowerPoint presentation on the benefits of remote work, including statistics and case studies."

Specific details guide the AI in producing a more tailored and useful output.

4. Iterative Refinement:

Bad Example: "Write about remote work benefits with details."

Good Example: "First, draft a summary of remote work benefits. Next, add relevant statistics. Finally, include case studies. Be sure to cite the relevant sources."

Breaking down the task into smaller steps helps the AI focus on each part, improving the overall quality.

5. Constraints:

Bad Example: "Create content on effective communication skills for new managers.“

Good Example: "Create a 1000-word article on effective communication skills for new managers, focusing on techniques for virtual team meetings and including references to recent studies and expert opinions. Provide relevant sources. Do not make up sources. Avoid using the words ‘delve’, ‘realm’, ‘tapestry’ and so on.

Adding constraints helps the AI focus its output and adhere to specific requirements, producing a more relevant and manageable outcome.

Watch the webinar recording below and let us know if you try this prompt structure!

Did you know? Many of ELB Learning's content creation tools include AI-powered features to help you quickly generate learning content. Check out all the AI features in our tools here.