We intend for the ILXD model to provide a framework to design ‘the optimal learning experience’: exhilarating learning with a deep sense of enjoyment and satisfaction. The experience will encourage the learner to stretch to their limits as they are focused on applying new skills that are matched to challenges and opportunities.

Most importantly, we intend the IXLD model to serve a fundamental shift in focus, with the learner’s experience as the core objective and the learner’s personalized instructional needs as the guiding framework.

The depth and breadth of pedagogy and educational technology topics imbued in the elements of the ILXD model can at first seem overwhelming. This effect can be amplified by the fact that they are drawn from across disparate disciplines and are prone to a dizzying rate of change. While each element is integral, they can be individually considered and understood. We have found this to be the recommended approach for implementing the model.

The elements of the ILXD model are not intended to be considered all-inclusive, nor is the model itself intended to be considered absolute. The entire model is not necessarily appropriate for all situations.

Instructors can enable learners to create their own 1:1 learning experience, and can utilize machine learning and deep learning to ensure that students do not design an ineffective learning experience for themselves.

Our goal for this paper is to introduce our experience with the ILXD model as a starting point for discussion and collaboration in a community of practice. We hope that you will find it useful and we look forward to learning about your work and discussing your comments, suggestions, and questions.

In the next paper (part two of three) in this series, we address taking the ILXD through production using our own products as case study examples for implementations in professional education and university courses.