There are all kinds of training and performance support materials. In fact, the term "performance support" is still relatively new in the training industry. Its meaning varies widely among trainers.
For our purposes here, "training materials" can be defined as instructional documents that are organized by objectives. For each objective, there is expository information (core content), some sort of learning activities (examples, demonstrations, etc.), and have a practice at the end. There are self-study, individualized materials that fit this criteria, either print based, computer based or in other media. Instructor guided classroom materials, such as lesson plans, also fit this criteria.
Performance support materials are documents or other aids that provide information in the context of doing a job. Procedures, job aids, technical specifications, reference documents and so on fit the criteria for performance support materials.
Self Study Instructional Material
Writing tutorial instructional material requires the ability to develop objectives across the domain of objective classifications. Remember, some of this material must stand-alone, without the benefit of an instructor to "fill in" the cracks. The lessons must be clear, straightforward, complete and well designed.
Good instructional design is more likely to be achieved by using proven instructional design strategies. An instructional design strategy exists for each type of objective. Try them. You will almost surely find them useful and effective.
