Instructional Module

 Instructional Module

An instructional module is a self-contained, structured learning package designed to help learners achieve specific learning objectives independently or with minimal teacher guidance. It contains learning content, activities, instructions, assessment, and feedback arranged systematically.

Definition

An instructional module is a systematically organized, self-instructional learning unit designed to achieve specific educational objectives through structured content, activities, and assessment.

Personality Behind It

The concept of instructional modules is influenced by:

• B.F. Skinner – programmed learning

• Robert Gagné – conditions of learning

• Benjamin Bloom – mastery learning

• Jerome Bruner – discovery learning

These theorists emphasized structured learning, sequencing, feedback, and learner autonomy.

Characteristics of Instructional Modules

1. Self-Instructional – Can be learned independently

2. Objective-Based – Clearly stated learning outcomes

3. Sequential – Content is logically arranged

4. Learner-Centred – Focuses on learner activity

5. Interactive – Includes activities and questions

6. Feedback-Oriented – Provides answers or guidance

7. Flexible – Can be adapted to different learners

8. Evaluative – Includes self-assessment tools

Importance in Education

1. Promotes self-directed learning

2. Supports individual differences

3. Encourages mastery learning

4. Useful in distance and blended learning

5. Reduces teacher dependency

6. Enhances learner motivation

7. Ensures uniform learning experiences

 Scope of Instructional Modules

1. School and higher education

2. Teacher education and training

3. Distance and online learning

4. Vocational and skill training

5. Remedial and enrichment teaching

6. Inclusive education

7. Corporate and professional training

Steps in Preparing an Instructional Module

Phases

1. Planning Phase
   Identify learners, objectives, content, and format.

2. Development Phase
   Prepare content, activities, assessments, and feedback.

3. Implementation Phase
   Use module in classroom or online environment.

4. Evaluation Phase
   Collect feedback and revise module.

Steps

1. Identify learning objectives

2. Analyze learner needs

3. Select and organize content

4. Choose instructional strategies

5. Prepare learning activities

6. Develop assessment tools

7. Provide feedback mechanisms

8. Pilot test and revise

Components of an Instructional Module

1. Title and introduction

2. Objectives

3. Entry behaviour

4. Learning content

5. Learning activities

6. Self-check exercises

7. Feedback and answers

8. Evaluation test

9. Summary

10. References

Classroom Implications

• Encourages self-learning

• Helps manage large classrooms

• Supports inclusive education

• Promotes blended learning

• Enhances student engagement

• Supports continuous assessment

Simple Instructional Module

Subject: Social Science (Civics)

Topic: Indian Parliament, Executive and Judiciary

Class: IX

Time: 40 minutes

Instructional Strategy: Instructional Module

Phase 1: Planning Phase

1. Title of the Module

Democratic Institutions of India

2. Learning Objectives

After completing this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Identify the three organs of government.

2. Explain the functions of Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.

3. Distinguish between the three organs.

4. Appreciate the importance of separation of powers.

3. Entry Behaviour

The learner knows that India is a democratic country.

Phase 2: Development Phase

4. Learning Content

Legislature – Makes laws (Parliament: Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha)
Executive – Implements laws (President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers)
Judiciary – Interprets laws (Supreme Court, High Courts)

5. Learning Activities

Activity 1: Matching
Match the following:

Organ	Function
Legislature	Makes laws
Executive	Implements laws
Judiciary	Interprets laws

Activity 2: Think and Answer

1. Why is the judiciary important in a democracy?

2. What will happen if only one organ controls all powers?

Activity 3: Group Discussion
Discuss: Why separation of powers is necessary?

6. Self-Check Questions

1. Which organ makes laws in India?

2. Who is the head of the executive?

3. Name the highest court in India.

(Answers provided at the end)

Phase 3: Implementation Phase

• Teacher distributes the module.

• Learners read the content individually.

• Learners complete activities.

• Teacher facilitates discussion and clarifies doubts.

Phase 4: Evaluation Phase

Evaluation Tool

Part A: Objective Type (1 mark each)

1. The organ which makes laws is the:
   a) Executive b) Legislature c) Judiciary

2. The highest court in India is:
   a) High Court b) District Court c) Supreme Court

Part B: Short Answer (2 marks each)

1. Write any two functions of the executive.

2. What is meant by separation of powers?

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Part C: Application (3 marks)

A law is passed by Parliament but violates fundamental rights.
Which organ will check this? Why?

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Answer Key

Part A: 1-b, 2-c
Part B: (as per textbook)
Part C: Judiciary — because it interprets the Constitution and protects rights.

This instructional module helps learners understand democratic institutions through structured content, activities, and evaluation.