Module 11: Rapid Prototyping and design SAM1 and SAM2

 Rapid Prototyping 

I'm sure by now you have heard of several ways that instructional design can be delivered. And by now you are probably thinking about what else could there be in the dynamic world of instructional design that I don't already know.  Well, wait, there is more, and you have to brace yourself and hold on to your seats because the rapid design will surely take you on an adventure ride like never before.  

I would like to introduce you to the high-speed, low drag world of Rapid Instructional Design (RID). In 2000, Dave Meier created this model as a replacement for the traditional models of instructional design. The RID models use accelerated learning design strategies and encourage course prototypes that are not time-consuming to develop that most ID models of design can be adapted and modified on the go or fly. 

The concept of rapid prototyping in terms of instructional design is to create a learning experience through a continual design assessment cycle that may continue throughout the project life. (Spiral model) 

Meier created rapid to mainly be used in industry and incorporates accelerated learning techniques that strive to design the learning environment with more practice, feedback, and experience rather than presentations. the four pillars or phases are preparation, presentation, practice, and performance. 

Preparation - raises curiosity and arouses learners' interest in learning objectives and removes barriers to learning. 

Presentation - ignites new knowledge and skills and creates an environment of problem-solving with real cases studies and interactive presentations. 

Practice - provides feedback and learning through trial and error. It uses learner games and simulations to enhance the learners' experience. 

Performance - apply new knowledge with authentic assessments. applying the students' or learners' knowledge to the workplace or real-world situations. 

The SAM (Successive, Approximation Model) approach was presented by Michael Allen and incorporates two different models. SAM1 creates a culture of using small steps for smaller projects uniquely designed for rapid prototyping. Effective for a clear path, incorporating all stakeholders, and a delivery project. SAM2 is well suited for larger projects that start with the Prep Phase - Background, Iterative Design Phase - Prototype-Evaluation-Design, and Iterative Development Phase - Implement-Evaluation - Development.  This model is designed for collaborative integration throughout the process. 

Some disadvantages of Rapid Design:

• can lead to a design-by-despair philosophy that may ignore initial analysis and planning. 
• does not eliminate the need for front-end analysis, and it cannot help if the situation is not responsive to instructional design. 
• may lead to a premature commitment to a design if it isn't remembered that a design is only a hypothesis. 

References

Meier, D. (2000). The Accelerated Learning Handbook. New York: McGraw-Hill.