Because of the diversity in both learners and information, a single approach to all instruction will not work. A number of different methods and media exist for designing and developing learning experiences and the roles of learner and teacher shift based on the situation, the content, and the special needs of the individuals involved. Instructional design principles should be followed in the design of lessons and units for classroom use. Design of instruction includes instructional analysis, determining the specific content, objectives, assessments, instructional strategy, and media decisions. Development includes creation of individual lessons and materials.
Implementation includes determining the instructional strategies and media.
Instructional design provides a basis for web-based curriculum that facilitates universal access. There has been a growing body of knowledge concerning the potential and actual use of materials using the principles of universal design. While the first four principles originated from the guidelines for accessible design delineated by the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the fifth enhances cognitive access. Provide educationally relevant descriptions for images and graphical layouts. Provide captions and educationally relevant descriptions for video.