Best AI Tools for Instructional Design (2025)

Discover the transformative potential of AI tools for instructional design to enrich the learning journey and streamline your design process this 2025.

What we will explore together:

• AI advancements like NLP and ITS are revolutionizing instructional design by personalizing learning experiences, automating content creation, and providing real-time learner support and feedback.
• New AI tools in 2025 are expanding instructional designers’ capabilities in areas such as language processing, image generation, multimedia, and learner engagement, leading to more efficient creation of high-quality educational materials.
• The integration of AI into educational practices demands a focus on ethical considerations and policies to ensure privacy, security, and effective use, while continuous evaluation using AI tools such as Disco AI, combined with human judgment, is necessary for improving learning outcomes.

What is instructional design and how can AI help?

Instructional design is the meticulous process of creating and developing educational programs and materials.

It involves a series of steps including analyzing learning needs, designing instructional content, and evaluating the effectiveness of the educational materials.

This process ensures that learning experiences are structured, engaging, and effective.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing this field by automating routine tasks, providing personalized learning experiences, and enhancing the overall learning process.

For instructional designers, AI can be a game-changer in several ways:

• AI can handle repetitive tasks such as grading assignments, tracking learner progress, and generating reports. This allows an instructional designer to focus more on creative and strategic aspects of course development.
• It can analyze learner data to identify individual learning gaps and create customized learning pathways. This ensures that each learner receives content tailored to their specific needs and learning style.
• AI-powered tools can develop adaptive assessments that adjust in real time based on learner performance. This provides immediate feedback and helps learners understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

Moreover, AI can assist in creating interactive and engaging learning materials such as simulations, games, and virtual reality experiences.

By leveraging AI, instructional designers can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of their educational programs, ultimately leading to better learning outcomes.

What are AI tools for instructional design?

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools for instructional design are advanced software solutions designed to help instructional designers and educators create, customize, and distribute educational materials more efficiently, making their workflow significantly easier and faster.

AI tools for instructional design are revolutionizing the field by streamlining complex tasks like personalized quiz creation and academic performance evaluation using advanced data analysis.

These tools employ learning analytics to track learner progress, enabling educators to identify areas for improvement and create tailored learning pathways.

When choosing AI tools, it's important to consider user-friendliness, customization, data analysis capabilities, system integration, and ethical standards.

Disco AI:  The best example of an AI tool for instructional designers

Disco AI stands out as a cutting-edge platform that significantly boosts content development efficiency for instructional designers.

This AI-powered tool is crafted to transform the instructional design process, including models like the ADDIE model, with its suite of innovative features.

A standout feature is its AI curriculum generator, which empowers instructional designers to create comprehensive and tailored educational programs.

By harnessing the power of AI, instructional designers can bypass the weeks-long process of drafting a curriculum. Instead, AI generates an initial draft within minutes, ready to be refined and enriched with the instructional designer's expertise and insights.

See how it works:

In addition to these capabilities, Disco AI offers tools for fostering collaborative learning and building educational communities, enriching the overall learning experience.

By leveraging Disco AI, instructional designers can streamline their workflow, elevate the quality of instructional materials, and ultimately transform the learning journey for future learners.

The intersection of AI and instructional design

AI is transforming instructional design through tools like NLP and ITS, enhancing the creation of engaging and personalized learning experiences.

These technologies support learners with real-time feedback and interactive elements. AI also aids in visual design and analysis, optimizing resources and accessibility.

Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) further personalize education by adapting to learner performance and providing valuable insights for continuous improvement in instructional design.

Enhancing creativity and efficiency in instructional design

AI is a powerful ally in the content creation and visual design process within instructional design.

These tools can significantly boost creativity and efficiency, enabling designers to generate ideas, create prototypes, and develop high-quality visual content with ease.

AI-generated art

Tools that produce AI-generated art can be used to create visually appealing and interactive learning materials. This includes infographics, animations, and videos that can capture learners’ attention and enhance their understanding of complex concepts.

Personalized learning materials

AI can analyze learner data to create customized textbooks, workbooks, and assessments. This personalization ensures that the content is relevant and engaging for each learner, catering to their unique needs and preferences.

Optimizing the course creation process

AI can streamline the course creation process by automating various tasks, reducing the time and effort required to develop high-quality learning materials.

This AI system allows instructional designers to focus on refining the content and improving the overall learning experience.

Leveraging AI for effective learning assessments

AI is transforming the way assessments, feedback, and evaluations are conducted in instructional design.

These AI models can create adaptive assessments that adjust to the needs of individual learners, providing personalized feedback and evaluation.

Adaptive assessments

It develops assessments that change in real time based on learner performance. This ensures that each learner is challenged appropriately and receives feedback that is tailored to their specific needs.

AI-generated feedback

AI provides immediate and detailed feedback, helping learners identify areas for improvement and offering suggestions for further learning. This personalized feedback is crucial for effective learning and development.

Data analysis

It analyzes large datasets to identify patterns and trends in learner performance.

This information can inform instructional design decisions, helping designers create more effective and engaging learning materials.

7 Best AI tools for instructional design in 2025

Several AI tools that are transforming the landscape of instructional design have emerged in 2025, thanks to advancements in machine learning algorithms. These tools span across various categories such as:

#1. Disco: Best AI-powered LMS

Disco is an AI-powered learning platform designed to help businesses launch branded academies. It combines social learning with automation to deliver personalized, modern, and scalable learning experiences.

The platform is trusted by leading organizations such as Kaplan, the Toronto Board of Trade, and Mercury. Supported by GSV ventures, Disco has been recognized by Fast Company and Edtech Breakthrough for its state-of-the-art learning technologies.

These include AI tools, advanced analytics, deep customization options, and a modern interface, making it an ideal choice for learning organizations and instructional designers seeking innovative solutions.

Key features:

• Automates content creation and administrative processes
• Integrates cohort-based social learning
• Embeds social-first features like channels and live events
• Automates operational tasks with AI-powered tools
• Provides robust reporting and analytics
• Offers real-time insights and AI-powered recommendations
• Features an ultra-modern, customizable interface
• Provides a sleek and intuitive user experience
• Consolidates tools into one streamlined platform
• Integrates with popular tools like Slack and Zoom

How does it help instructional designers?

Disco AI streamlines instructional design for cohort-based learning by offering AI-driven customization and engagement features.

It acts as a digital assistant, automating tasks and monitoring learner progress, which significantly accelerates the creation and management of learning experiences.

Are you serious about elevating your learning and training programs in 2025? Try Disco with a 14-day free trial to kickstart your curriculum generation and automate numerous routine tasks all in one platform.

This transformative decision can lead to significant improvements in your operations.

#2. ChatGPT: Best for brainstorming sessions and interactive Q&A

ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is a cutting-edge text generation tool that excels in facilitating content brainstorming, developing course outlines, and enhancing interactive Q&A sessions.

It has become an indispensable asset for instructional designers seeking to streamline their creative processes and foster engaging learning environments.

Key features:

• ChatGPT can generate a wide array of content ideas, helping instructional designers overcome creative blocks and explore innovative concepts for course materials
• The tool assists in structuring coherent and comprehensive course outlines, ensuring alignment with learning objectives and educational goals
• ChatGPT enhances learner engagement by providing dynamic and interactive Q&A capabilities, enabling learners to explore topics in-depth and receive instant feedback

How does it help instructional designers?

ChatGPT acts as a virtual assistant, significantly speeding up content development by aiding in idea generation and facilitating scenario-based learning. Its ability to simulate real-world interactions and provide contextually relevant responses makes it an invaluable tool for creating immersive learning experiences.

#3. Synthesia: Best AI video generator platform

Synthesia is an innovative AI video creation tool that empowers instructional designers to produce high-quality video content with ease.

Utilizing customizable avatars and multilingual support enables the creation of engaging and accessible instructional videos without the need for extensive video production resources.

Key features:

• Synthesia allows designers to create realistic video content using AI-generated avatars, making delivering instructional materials in a visually engaging format easy.
• The tool supports multiple languages, broadening the reach of educational content and catering to diverse learner populations.
• Synthesia transforms written text into compelling video presentations, enhancing the delivery of instructional content.

How does it help instructional designers?

Synthesia revolutionizes video content creation by offering a quick, cost-effective solution for producing instructional videos. Eliminating the need for traditional camera equipment allows designers to focus on content quality and learner engagement.

#4. Canva for education: Best for design templates and multimedia editing tool

Canva for education is a versatile AI tool for design that provides instructional designers with a comprehensive suite of tools for creating visually appealing educational materials.

Its user-friendly interface and extensive library of design templates make it an ideal choice for enhancing course visuals and multimedia content.

Key features:

• Canva offers a wide range of design templates and infographic options, enabling designers to create professional-quality visuals that complement their instructional content.
• The platform includes robust multimedia editing tools, allowing designers to enhance images, videos, and presentations with ease.
• Canva's AI-driven features optimize image quality and provide design suggestions, streamlining the creative process.

How does it help instructional designers?

Canva empowers instructional designers to produce compelling visuals, infographics, and slide content, enhancing the overall aesthetic and effectiveness of their courses.

Its AI capabilities ensure that design elements are polished and aligned with educational objectives.

#5. Descript: Best for text-to-video editing capabilities

Descript is a powerful video and audio editing tool that simplifies the creation and enhancement of instructional media.

Its innovative features, such as transcription, screen recording, and text-to-video synchronization, make it an essential tool for instructional designers aiming to deliver high-quality multimedia content.

Key features:

• Descript provides comprehensive editing tools for refining instructional videos and audio recordings, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
• The tool offers accurate transcription services and screen recording capabilities, facilitating the creation of detailed video tutorials.
• Descript synchronizes written text with video content, enhancing the coherence and impact of instructional materials.

How does it help instructional designers?

Descript streamlines the editing process for instructional videos, enabling designers to focus on content quality and learner engagement.

Its ability to transcribe and enhance audio content, including removing filler words and adding voiceovers, ensures that instructional materials are polished and effective.

#6. Quizlet: Best for quiz questions and interactive games

Quizlet is a versatile platform that offers a range of tools for creating interactive learning experiences.

With features like flashcard-based learning, customizable quizzes, and interactive games, it supports instructional designers in developing engaging study aids and assessments.

Key features:

• Quizlet enables the creation of digital flashcards, facilitating the memorization and review of key concepts.
• The platform allows designers to create quizzes tailored to specific learning objectives, enhancing the assessment process.
• Quizlet's interactive games promote active learning and engagement, making the learning process enjoyable and effective.

How does it help instructional designers?

Quizlet leverages AI to automatically generate quiz questions based on course content, aiding in the development of study aids and interactive assessments.

Its user-friendly interface and diverse features make it a valuable tool for enhancing learner engagement and retention.

#7. Consensus: Best research tool

Consensus is an AI-powered research tool designed to streamline the process of gathering and analyzing academic information.

It is particularly useful for instructional designers seeking to incorporate evidence-based insights into their course content.

Key features:

• Consensus automates the literature review process, providing designers with relevant and curated academic sources.
• The tool offers advanced data analysis capabilities, enabling designers to interpret research findings and present them effectively.
• It integrates with various academic databases, ensuring access to a wide range of scholarly resources.

How does it help instructional designers?

Consensus simplifies the research process, allowing instructional designers to access and analyze scholarly information efficiently.

Its AI-driven features ensure that course content is informed by the latest research, enhancing the credibility and depth of educational materials.

Elevate your instructional design strategy with AI tools! Start with Disco! 🪩

Being an instructional designer is no easy feat. Even before the advent of AI, instructional designers needed to meticulously plan and optimize their extensive list of tasks to deliver transformative learning experiences.

With the rise of AI technology, some instructional design practitioners worry about their job security. However, AI is not here to replace human instructional designers but to enhance their capabilities.

A groundbreaking example is the Disco AI curriculum generator, which can craft an entire curriculum in mere minutes!

Begin elevating your instructional design strategy by integrating AI tools, starting with Disco! This platform offers a 14-day free trial for new users. Reach out to our experts if you have any questions about using the tool or if you wish to discuss the current challenges in your LMS.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is AI used in instructional design?

AI is revolutionizing instructional design by providing tools that automate content development, tailor learning experiences to individual needs, and enhance the overall accessibility of educational materials.

These advancements are streamlining the instructional design process, making it possible to create dynamic and interactive learning environments that cater to diverse learning styles and preferences.

How is AI enhancing the field of instructional design?

Through the automation of mundane tasks and the personalization of student learning journeys, AI is significantly enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of instructional design.

It enables the creation of adaptive learning platforms that respond to the individual progress of learners, thereby delivering a more engaging and customized educational experience.

What are the ethical considerations in integrating AI into instructional design?

The integration of AI into instructional design brings forth ethical considerations that include ensuring data privacy, maintaining transparency in AI decision-making, and fostering an environment of trust and understanding between AI systems and users.

It is imperative to establish clear guidelines and standards that safeguard the interests of all stakeholders in the educational ecosystem.

How can instructional designers prepare for future AI-driven instructional design trends?

Instructional designers can prepare for the future by embracing a culture of continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest AI advancements.

By developing a solid understanding of AI capabilities and limitations, they can strategically implement AI tools to create innovative, data-driven learning experiences while also anticipating and adapting to the evolving educational landscape.