I was tasked with comparing two instructional design (ID) models against the tried and true ADDIE ID framework for an assignment in my EDU 623: Designing Learning Environments class. Below, you will find my response.
Objectives:
- Define ADDIE, ASSURE, and SAM instructional design models.
- Compare and contrast ASSURE and SAM to ADDIE.
- Explain which model I would personally use in my current educational context, and why.
ADDIE
Image Source: McGriff, 2000.
Definition: ADDIE is an acronym for Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. With ADDIE, the designer defines a need, designs goals and objectives, develops said goals and objectives, rolls out the objectives, and then evaluates the entire process for improvement (McGriff, 2000).
ADDIE can be used when strategy making a process or rollout that has many steps. Using a framework such as ADDIE will ensure the rollout stays on track, reducing the possibility of errors or missed steps.
The process is very linear (Allen, 2019) and really serves as a great well-rounded framework for project planning in all facets. I would define the ADDIE model as more of a generic framework for project design, with versatility being the true strength of ADDIE, as the model can be applied to essentially anything.
ASSURE
Definition: ASSURE is an acronym for Analyze Learners; State Standards and Objectives; Select Strategies, Technology, Media, and Materials; Utilize Technology, Media, and Materials; Require Learner Participation; and Evaluate and Revise (Kurt, 2015). The ASSURE instructional design model is an educational design model with the goal of producing more effective teaching as the ASSURE framework is far more focused on educational needs (Kurt, 2015).
Similarities and differences from ADDIE:
ADDIE and ASSURE are both very similar in that the models both follow a generally linear path. Both ADDIE and ASSURE require the designer to define a question, state objectives and design, and develop/implement. Where ADDIE and ASSURE differ is that ASSURE focuses on the educational requirements of students. ASSURE requires a designer to define standards and plan how to present the educational material.
The ASSURE design process looks at critical components to course design, ensuring that alignment/standards are followed. In a program where specific accreditation standards must be followed closely, having an ID process that requires a designer to ensure standards are met will ensure critical standards are not overlooked.
SAM
Definition: SAM is an acronym for Successive Approximations Model. The SAM model is all about speed and process improvement (Allen, 2019). The SAM model of ID is a quick, circular process that essentially works as trial and error. There are two SAM models, SAM1 and SAM2, but this discussion will be covering the SAM 1 model. The SAM 1 process encourages the designer to use intuition and instinct, with more of a focus on quickly producing results, followed up with improvement by evaluating the process (Allen, 2019). With SAM 1, the designer follows the process at least two times, continually improving the design process with each round.
When using the SAM model, the evaluate step is where questions are quickly asked, and problems quickly defined. The design phase is where the designer starts shooting out ideas and guesses based on personal knowledge and intuition, a solution to the problem or question (Allen, 2019). And finally, in the develop phase of SAM, the designer begins to formulate the process in which the instruction for the questions or problems are delivered. All three steps are repeated over and over at least two times, until a practical, well-thought and solid design is produced (Allen, 2019).
Similarities and differences from ADDIE:
Sam and ADDIE are so different I actually find it comical. I equate ADDIE to the quiet introvert having a peaceful, quiet, relaxing day; only to be abruptly interrupted by the boisterous extrovert SAM. ADDIE is methodical to the letter, where SAM is on-the-fly quick trial and error. SAM is heavily influenced by intuition and backed up by data later through the repetition of the SAM cycles. ADDIE seeks to plan out all details in a singular, linear process, accounting for all variables where possible; SAM jumps right into action improving upon the process with each cycle.
My Model of Choice: ASSURE
I work in higher education and much of what I do involves technology and instruction. The ASSURE model is a framework designed for just such a need. I feel there are gaps in the ADDIE framework that can be overlooked when curriculum planning/designing. The ASSURE framework has safeguards in place to help fill in these gaps by virtue of being an educational-based model. ADDIE is a one-stop-shop for anything, essentially a generalist model. But ASSURE is more tailored to education, and by prompting the designer to consider questions that involve students and course development in general, I feel the ASSURE model is the model that best suits my needs and domain.
References
Allen, M. (2019). Leaving ADDIE for SAM: Moving Beyond Content-Centered Design. Allen Interactions. https://www.alleninteractions.com/resources/whitepaper/leaving-addie-for-sam
Kurt, S. (2015, November 23). ASSURE: Instructional Design Mode. Educational Technology. https://educationaltechnology.net/assure-instructional-design-model/
McGriff, S. (2000, September). Instructional System Design (ISD): Using the ADDIE Model. http://www.seas.gwu.edu/~sbraxton/ISD/general_phases.html