It's Not Just a Phase
- Charles Shewell
- Jun 6, 2023
- 3 min read
Discussing the Phases of the ADDIE Model

The ADDIE Model
There are 5 phases of this model: analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation for developing effective instruction. Each phase feeds into the next for shaping instructional material. The analysis phase is where you establish goals and objectives, as well as the learning environment and preexisting knowledge. The design phase takes a systematic look at learning objectives, content, lesson planning and media selection for developing strategies to help learners obtain set goals. The development phase is where you will put together the content designed in the previous phase, allowing for tech integration and development. The implementation phase is a procedural phase for educators and learners to understand use of new equipment and tools. The evaluation phase is built by formative and summative assessments that provide feedback from the learners. You can then take that feedback and redesign your instruction for a more effective learning environment if needed.
A Systematic Approach:
The ADDIE model provides a systematic approach to instructional design. It ensures that educators and instructional designers follow a structured process from start to finish, allowing for consistent and organized development of educational materials. This systematic approach helps ensure that all important aspects of instruction are considered and addressed.
Needs Analysis:
The Analysis phase of ADDIE involves conducting a thorough needs analysis to identify the learning needs, goals, and objectives of the learners. This phase helps educators gain a deep understanding of the target audience, their prior knowledge, and any specific requirements or challenges they may have. By analyzing these factors, educators can design instruction that is tailored to the learners' needs, leading to more effective learning outcomes.
Designing Instruction:
The Design phase focuses on creating the instructional materials and strategies that will facilitate learning.”The design phase should be systematic and specific,”(Culatta, 2018). It involves defining learning objectives, determining the content and instructional methods, and designing assessments to measure learning outcomes. By carefully designing instruction based on identified needs and objectives, educators can create engaging and effective learning experiences.
Iterative Development:
The Development phase of ADDIE involves creating the actual instructional materials, such as lesson plans, activities, multimedia resources, and assessments. The iterative nature of the ADDIE model allows for continuous refinement and improvement of these materials. Educators can gather feedback, make necessary revisions, and ensure that the instructional materials align with the desired learning outcomes. This iterative process helps to enhance the quality and effectiveness of the instructional materials.
Implementation and Evaluation:
The Implementation phase involves delivering the instruction to learners, whether in a classroom or through online platforms. This phase provides an opportunity to observe how learners engage with the instructional materials and make any necessary adjustments in real-time. The Evaluation phase allows educators to assess the effectiveness of the instruction, gather feedback from learners and other stakeholders, and make data-driven decisions for future improvements. “Summative evaluation consists of tests designed for domain specific criterion-related referenced items and providing opportunities for feedback from the users,” (Culatta, 2018). This continuous evaluation process helps ensure that the instructional design is meeting the needs of the learners and achieving the desired learning outcomes.
Overall, the ADDIE instructional design model works effectively in the educational setting because it promotes a systematic and learner-centered approach. “In the ADDIE model, each step has an outcome that feeds into the subsequent step,”(Culatta, 2018). By thoroughly analyzing needs, designing tailored instruction, iteratively developing materials, and continuously evaluating outcomes, educators can create engaging and effective learning experiences that support the educational goals of their students.
If It Works, Why Stop?
Along with the ADDIE model, the backwards design are models I use for developing enhanced learning experiences. I rely on feedback from Subject Matter Experts (SME's) and my students for revisions to my instruction, as well as revised industry standards because of the courses I teach. The key components for why I use these models are the analysis and design phases. Basing my instruction on the TEKS and industry standards allows me to develop instruction based on these goals and objectives. Having a background in production and media, I have a passion for developing instruction, so designing interactive instruction with technology brings an excitement for developing new ways for instruction that will interest my students and build on their curiosities. When I struggle in my developing lesson plans, I will use the backwards design and work my way backwards. At times this helps me to look at things from a different perspective to gain a better understanding.
References
Culatta, R. (2018). ADDIE Model. InstructionalDesign.org. https://www.instructionaldesign.org/models/addie/



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