Evidence-Informed Learning Design by Mirjam Neelen & Paul A. Kirschner Summary

This book teaches L&D professionals how to create training programs using scientifically validated methods, combining Mirjam Neelen's 15+ years at organizations like Novartis and Google with learning science research. It debunks myths like the 70/20/10 model while providing frameworks for designing practice-heavy, measurable learning experiences that drive real workplace performance improvements.

Corporate trainers, instructional designers, and HR leaders seeking research-based methods to improve workplace training ROI. It’s particularly valuable for L&D teams in regulated industries like pharmaceuticals or tech needing compliant, scalable skill development solutions. The book assumes basic instructional design knowledge but explains complex concepts clearly.

Yes, its focus on timeless learning principles and adaptive frameworks makes it particularly relevant for 2025’s challenges of AI integration and rapid reskilling needs. The evidence-based approach helps organizations cut through trend-driven solutions to build future-proof training programs, with updated examples reflecting modern digital workplace realities.

• Practice Engineering: 40% of learning time should involve deliberate practice
• Myth Busting: Disproves common L&D assumptions like self-directed learning effectiveness
• Research Synthesis: Teaches how to evaluate and apply learning science studies
• Data-Driven Design: Metrics framework for tracking skill transfer to workplaces

Neelen rejects intuition-based design in favor of cognitive load-optimized learning sequences. Unlike traditional models focused on content delivery, her method prioritizes spaced practice intervals and performance support tools. The book shows how to replace popular but unsupported concepts like learning styles with evidence-based alternatives.

• “Designing without evidence is like building skyscrapers without engineering principles”
• “Practice isn’t part of learning – practice is learning”
• “Our obsession with novelty makes us forget 80 years of proven science”

Chapter 9 specifically tackles rapid reskilling needs through modular, just-in-time learning architectures. Neelen provides a 5-step framework for identifying critical skills gaps and designing targeted micro-practice environments. Includes case studies from pharmaceutical sales training and tech onboarding programs.

While both emphasize evidence-based practice, Neelen’s work focuses specifically on corporate application rather than academic settings. It offers more implementation tools like ROI calculators and stakeholder alignment templates compared to theoretical works. The book uniquely addresses hybrid learning ecosystems and digital adoption challenges.

Some practitioners note the rigorous research requirements may overwhelm small L&D teams. The focus on quantitative metrics could underemphasize soft skills development. However, Neelen addresses these concerns in later chapters with scalable validation techniques and balanced assessment models.

The book includes a "Lean Learning Design" chapter with:

1. Free cognitive load assessment tools
2. Low-tech practice simulation ideas
3. Open-access research repositories
4. Stakeholder education templates

Case studies show implementations under $5k budget achieving 23% performance lifts.

Neelen recommends pairing with:

• ATD’s Evidence-Based Design credential
• CIPD’s Learning Analytics modules
• LinkedIn’s Learning Science for Professionals course

Appendix B provides detailed pathway comparisons and skill gap analysis tools.

With 15+ years leading L&D at Novartis, Google, and Accenture plus advanced degrees in Learning Sciences and Psycholinguistics, Neelen uniquely combines academic rigor with corporate pragmatism. Her work redesigning global sales training programs for 100k+ employees informs the book’s actionable frameworks.