Instructional Design as a topic of inquiry presents an interesting topic, especially as I have come to understand that many of the models we implement have not had their validity fully explored in terms of why the model works, why you should use the model, and how to effectively implement the model. I explored the Design-Based Learning instructional design model in-depth and found that as presented by the creator and their work in the field, I would struggle to say it has been validated. While many have seen success in implementing Design-Based Learning, I would love to see more research from the creator on their processes for designing and developing the model and how they came to their conclusions. Design-Based Learning, like many other instructional design models, has centers or organizations that support and implement the model, which can sometimes limit access to the research unless you are a practitioner (customer) of that particular model. This does, however, leave the opportunity to conduct a research study on a model like Design-Based Learning, exploring more in-depth why and how it works, as well as how to implement the model in a variety of areas effectively.

Overall, I believe my biggest takeaway so far from looking into advanced instructional design models is that I need to approach exploring models with a much more critical lens, looking deeper into the validation process and the claims they make in relation to their applicability and effectiveness. I believe that as I develop this more critical approach, I will be able to better disseminate which instructional design model will work best for my needs.