1. Understanding the Importance of ISD Models

Instructional Systems Design (ISD) models serve as frameworks to guide the process of creating, implementing, and evaluating learning programs. A well-chosen ISD model can:

• Enhance quality and consistency: Clear stages or cycles in a design model ensure quality control at each step (Dick & Carey, 2015).
• Improve collaboration: Common terminology and frameworks help teams work together more cohesively (Allen & Sites, 2012).
• Facilitate evaluation: Built-in assessment protocols allow for ongoing improvement (Reiser & Dempsey, 2018).

2. Overview of Three Popular ISD Models

2.1 ADDIE Model

Key Phases: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation

The ADDIE model is often considered the “classic” approach to instructional design. Each phase is distinct and follows a linear progression:

1. Analysis: Identify the learning problem, audience needs, and objectives.
2. Design: Outline learning objectives, strategies, and assessment methods.
3. Development: Produce the course materials and digital assets.
4. Implementation: Deliver the training to the target audience.
5. Evaluation: Collect feedback and measure the effectiveness of the training.

Real-World Example: A large manufacturing company wants to create a comprehensive safety training program. Due to strict compliance requirements, each module must pass several rounds of approval. The linearity and clear checkpoints in ADDIE help maintain adherence to regulations and make documenting progress straightforward.

When to Use ADDIE:

• Highly regulated industries
• Projects requiring clear documentation and structure
• Situations with relatively stable or predictable learning goals

2.2 SAM (Successive Approximation Model)

Key Phases: Preparation, Iterative Design, Iterative Development

SAM is a more iterative model than ADDIE. It involves rapid prototypes, frequent reviews, and continuous refinement (Allen, 2012). This approach emphasizes collaboration and flexibility:

1. Preparation Phase: Gather initial requirements and project information.
2. Iterative Design Phase: Create prototypes, review them with stakeholders, and refine based on feedback.
3. Iterative Development Phase: Continue refining and validating prototypes, ensuring the final product meets the learners’ needs.

Real-World Example: A tech startup needs to create training for a new software release. The software features are changing frequently due to user testing. SAM’s iterative nature allows the instructional design team to adapt materials quickly, ensuring the final course remains aligned with the latest software updates.

When to Use SAM:

• Projects where content or technology is rapidly evolving
• Situations requiring frequent stakeholder input and collaboration
• Environments with tight deadlines, where quick prototypes are essential

2.3 Agile Framework for Learning Design

Key Principles: Collaboration, Flexibility, Iterative Development, Empowered Teams

Borrowed from software development, Agile methodologies (such as Scrum or Kanban) prioritize collaboration, speed, and iterative releases (Beck et al., 2001). In an instructional design context, Agile involves continuous planning, rapid development sprints, and frequent feedback loops:

1. Backlog Creation: Define learning objectives as “user stories” (e.g., “As a new sales rep, I want to learn how to qualify leads effectively.”).
2. Sprint Planning: Determine what user stories will be completed in a set timeframe (e.g., two weeks).
3. Sprint Execution: Design, develop, and test the learning solutions.
4. Review and Retrospective: Present the deliverables to stakeholders, gather feedback, and refine for the next sprint.

Real-World Example: A global retail chain needs to roll out ongoing product knowledge training for its sales staff. Because products and marketing strategies shift monthly, an Agile approach ensures that each “sprint” delivers updated training content at the pace of change.

When to Use Agile:

• Large, distributed teams needing continuous updates
• Projects where learning needs evolve quickly
• Stakeholders who can provide frequent feedback and iterative sign-offs

3. Comparing the Models

4. Choosing the Right Model for Your Organization

Selecting the right ISD model depends on several factors:

• Stability of Content and Requirements: If your training content is unlikely to change, ADDIE may suffice. If it is evolving, consider SAM or Agile.
• Time Constraints: If you need to quickly test and iterate, SAM or Agile models are likely better fits.
• Organizational Culture: Some cultures prefer clear, structured processes (favoring ADDIE), while others thrive on innovation and continuous feedback (favoring SAM or Agile).
• Stakeholder Involvement: If your stakeholders can commit to iterative reviews, SAM or Agile can deliver more targeted and up-to-date solutions. If they prefer a more hands-off approach until final review, ADDIE’s linear structure may be more suitable.

5. Conclusion

Choosing the right ISD model can have a profound impact on the success of your learning initiatives. While ADDIE offers a traditional, structured path, SAM and Agile emphasize rapid iteration and frequent feedback. By aligning the model’s strengths with your organization’s culture, project requirements, and stakeholder needs, you can create impactful and adaptable learning experiences that truly drive results.

References

• Allen, M. (2012). Leaving ADDIE for SAM: An Agile model for developing the best learning experiences. ASTD Press.
• Allen, M. W., & Sites, R. (2012). Leaving ADDIE for SAM Field Guide: Guidelines and templates for developing the best learning experiences. ASTD Press.
• Beck, K., et al. (2001). Manifesto for Agile Software Development. Retrieved from https://agilemanifesto.org/
• Dick, W., & Carey, L. (2015). The systematic design of instruction (8th ed.). Pearson.
• Reiser, R. A., & Dempsey, J. V. (2018). Trends and issues in instructional design and technology (4th ed.). Pearson.