Which criteria should be used to select effective instructional materials?

Selecting effective instructional materials is crucial for achieving desired learning outcomes. The most relevant criteria is their relevance to objectives and the validity of the information. Instructional materials must align closely with the specific learning objectives to ensure that they effectively support the intended educational goals. This alignment enhances both teaching and learning, making it easier for students to understand the material in the context of what they are meant to learn.

Moreover, the validity of the information is paramount. Materials should be accurate, up-to-date, and credible, since providing students with reliable information is essential for their understanding and mastery of the subject matter. Valid information fosters critical thinking and helps students develop a sound knowledge base.

Choosing materials based solely on their popularity among educators may not guarantee that the content is aligned with learning objectives or relevant to the needs of a particular class. Likewise, while availability of funding is important for practical logistics, it does not inherently reflect the quality or effectiveness of the instructional materials. Finally, relying solely on the instructor's personal experience may lead to bias that doesn’t consider the specific learning needs of students or the curriculum objectives. Therefore, focusing on relevance to objectives and the validity of information ensures a more structured and effective approach to selecting instructional materials.