Mastering the Possibilities directly involves students in the process of actually designing instructional events through: (1) a comprehensive overview of instructional design principles as they apply in real settings; (2) explanations of how learning principles can be used to design responsive solutions to instructional problems in a range of settings (e.g. educational and training); (3) examination of the component parts of instructional design in a holistic approach by incorporating a wide range of contemporary instructional and assessment methods; and (4) ongoing reflection of one's own understanding of the instructional design process through dialogue with oneself and involvement in a design project.

This learner-centered approach to instructional design gives the student extensive experience in using the principles of instructional design as they learn about them. It is, according to one reviewer, “very much involved in guiding instruction, rather than presenting information.”