The role of instructional design and technology in the dissemination of empirically supported, manual-based therapies

The principles, processes, and tools of instructional design and technology (IDT) can facilitate the translation of paper-based, text-intensive Manual-Based Therapies (MBTs) into media-rich, interactive, Web-based training (WBT) applications. This article outlines available technology-based mechanisms for delivering instructional content, provides examples of how each can be used for effective dissemination of MBTs, and outlines the advantages that may accrue from this approach. Clinical researchers and IDT professionals can collaborate to increase adoption of treatment manuals by employing user-friendly, instructionally sound Web applications that incorporate video role-plays, audio narration, graphics, animation, and dynamic, interactive content.