
ADDIE Model
ADDIE Model Overview
The ADDIE model was originally developed for military applications, but has been used in the design of training and educational courses for decades (Bouchrika, 2024). The ADDIE Model is a long standing, comprehensive, and valuable tool for creating learning experiences. The model provides a framework for instructional designers that goes from the initial ideation stages to evaluating for revisions. In can be used in many contexts and for a variety of content (ADDIE Model, n.d.).
Implications of the ADDIE model for Instructional Design
Analysis
In the analysis stage, the instructional designer (ID) figures out where there is a disconnect between what should be known and what is known, why it is important to address that disconnect with instruction, who the instruction will target, and what resources will be needed. Overall instructional goals are set.
Design
​In the design stage, the specific learning objectives are set (and often assessments of whether these goals are met are created). The basic framework for the course is established through things like storyboarding, draft a course diagram, or outlining course components. The method of delivery is often chosen at this time as well. For online delivery, a style should be established.
Development
In the development stage, learning materials are created and curated such that learners can reach the learning goals set in the “Design” stage. It is a best practice to create a representative portion of the learning experience and have that approved by any relevant bodies prior to developing the entire learning experience. After the learning experience is ready, ideally a pilot test would be done.
Implementa-tion
In the implementation stage, the ID prepares the instructor, if applicable, to lead the course. Students are prepared by having them gather any necessary materials, assuring their technological requirements, and making sure they have the necessary knowledge to start the course. Students are engaged in the course.
Evaluation
In the evaluation stage, the quality of the learning experience, including how well the experience allows learnings to reach the stated learning objectives is assessed. While this is a “stage” in the model. Evaluation, far more than other stages, occurs throughout the process. While there should be a summative evaluation after implementation occurs. Formative evaluation may occur at many times throughout the process. The feedback from these evaluations is then used to improve the course.
The ADDIE model has been used in the design of training and educational courses for decades. It is a comprehensive model instructional designers use with an emphasis on creating well-planned (necessary/important) learning goals and making sure that learners are able to meet those goals is valuable for instructional design. This lends itself to the creation of effective learning experiences. Additionally, its broad nature allows it to be adapted across many settings and topics. Although other models exist and will continue to emerge, ADDIE has a strong presence in the instructional design realm and will likely continue to do so (Bouchrika, 2024).
Strengths and Limitations of the ADDIE model for use in Higher Education (opinion)
I feel that the ADDIE model is well suited for applications in higher education. It is flexible and can be used across disciplines. The focus on effectiveness of the learning experience (meeting learning objectives) is key for student success. The very structured nature fits well with timelines, structure, and culture in academia.
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I think one of the biggest downsides to using ADDIE, particularly in higher education, is that it could turn into a “kitchen sink” approach. ADDIE is already criticized for being a lengthy and resource intensive process. Academicians, rightly so, love theories and models. Because ADDIE is such a robust framework the temptation might be to think “(this) model could fit under the implementation stage” and “(that) theory goes along with the design stage until the utilization of the framework becomes so cumbersome that it can’t be used. You can see some of this sort of kitchen sinking even now. If you look at 20 different descriptions of ADDIE, you’ll probably find at least a recommendation or two for what is to be done in a stage that are unique in several of the articles. If you put them all together, it’s probably starting to become a bit impractical. Another downside in higher education might be that it would be challenge to pilot an entire semester long course (as is commonly recommended in the development stage).
Given these and other strengths and despite these and other potential drawbacks, the ADDIE model is used successfully in higher education to create meaningful learning experiences, and I image it will be for some time to come.
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ADDIE Model. (n.d.) Retrieved May 13, 2024 from https://www.instructionaldesign.org/models/addie/
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Bouchrika, I. (April 17, 2024). The ADDIE Model Explained: Evolution, Steps, and Applications in 2024. Retrieved from https://research.com/education/the-addie-model