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4C/ID-model

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Evidence · 1 claim (1 for) · 1 study (1 theoretical), q1 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 1 claim rests on one study

Description

The Four-Component Instructional Design model is a framework developed by van Merriënboer and colleagues for designing training programs that support complex skill acquisition and transfer.

Components

  • 4C/ID model as a blueprint for complex learning: The 4C/ID model, authored by the first author of this review, is cited in the article's reference list as "Blueprints for complex learning: The 4C/ID-model" (van Merriënboer, Clark, and de Croock, 2002a). It represents a blueprint approach to designing complex learning consistent with the review's real-life-task perspective on managing high intrinsic load in complex skill acquisition. (van Merriënboer et al. (2005))
  • Ten Steps approach guiding instructional designers from task analysis to training blueprint: The Ten Steps (Van Merriënboer & Kirschner, 2018) is a design process accompanying 4C/ID that guides designers through analysis activities (cognitive task analysis, cognitive strategy and mental model analysis, cognitive rules and prerequisite knowledge) and design steps for the four blueprint components. The article notes "The Ten Steps approach by Van Merriënboer and Kirschner (2018) lists 10 design activities that result in an educational blueprint describing the program in terms of the four components." Its strength, per the authors, lies in a comprehensive systematic approach particularly when the task is unfamiliar and few ready-made materials exist. (Frerejean et al. (2021))

Claims

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Key Sources

  • van Merriënboer, J.J.G., Clark, R.E. & de Croock, M.B.M. (2002). Blueprints for complex learning: The 4C/ID-model. ETR&D. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02504993
  • van Merriënboer, J.J.G., Sweller, J. (2005). Cognitive Load Theory and Complex Learning: Recent Developments and Future Directions. Educ Psychol Rev 17, 147–177 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-005-3951-0
  • Frerejean, J., van Geel, M., Keuning, T., Dolmans, D., van Merriënboer, J. J. G., & Visscher, A. J. (2021). Ten steps to 4C/ID: training differentiation skills in a professional development program for teachers. Instructional Science. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11251-021-09540-x
Page metadata
Field Value
type product
id 4cid-model
title 4C/ID-model
description The Four-Component Instructional Design model is a framework developed by van Merriënboer and colleagues for designing training programs that support complex skill acquisition and transfer.
status review
product_kind framework
generated by process:settle-candidates on 2026-10-16
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