Learning designers rarely struggle because they lack frameworks. More often, they face the opposite problem: several plausible approaches appear appropriate, each highlighting different priorities, assumptions, and risks.

The Framework Selection Record is a structured decision-making tool designed to help practitioners compare learning design frameworks, examine the assumptions they bring, and document the professional judgement behind their final choice.

Rather than treating frameworks as authorities, this record helps make decisions visible, defensible, and reviewable.

Use this record to:

• Compare competing frameworks or approaches
• Examine what different frameworks reveal and obscure
• Surface assumptions that might otherwise go unquestioned
• Identify tensions, trade-offs, and accepted risks
• Record the reasoning behind significant design decisions
• Create a clear judgement trail for future review

Suitable for:

• Learning Designers
• Instructional Designers
• Educational Developers
• Programme Leaders
• Academic Developers
• Learning and Development Professionals

Includes:

• Problem definition and context section
• Framework comparison worksheets
• Assumptions audit prompts
• Trade-off and risk recording tools
• Judgement and decision record
• Review and reflection section
• Worked example demonstrating the complete process

Why this tool is different

Most framework guides explain how to apply a model.

This record helps you decide whether a model is appropriate in the first place.

It is designed for situations where multiple approaches are defensible and where professional judgement remains necessary, even after a framework has been selected.

Product details

• Editable Microsoft Word document (.docx)
• Instant digital download
• Individual-use licence included
• Compatible with Microsoft Word and Word Online

Licence

For individual professional use. May be adapted and retained as part of personal or organisational practice. Not for resale, redistribution, publication as a template, or incorporation into another commercial product.