Constructive Alignment is a principle used to direct the systematic design of instruction, based on ensuring the alignment between all aspects of the learning experience, from the formulation of learning outcomes, to the selection of learning materials. It combines elements of Constructivism with Outcomes-based learning in order to ensure that outcomes are met by students, evidence collected through assessment tasks, all while supported by formative activities and appropriate learning materials.
Constructive Alignment is posited on the idea that Course Learning Outcomes should inform selection of assessment tasks to measure them, which in turn informs the design of formative learning activities and the selection of learning materials and content. This alignment of top-down elements within a course ensures that outcomes are appropriately supported by other elements within the course, and that all elements are serving a purpose and are not extraneous to the goals of the course.
ETS uses instructional design model based upon ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation), with embedded elements of Constructive Alignment to ensure courses are designed in a robust and efficient manner, while maintaining the flexibility to engage learners in new and innovative ways.
Constructive alignment diagram, Beale Gurney & Nell Rundle, CC BY-SA
