With the field of eLearning and course development growing, there are many methodologies out there being used in instructional design. Two of the most used are the ADDIE model and the AGILE design approach. So, which one is better?
What’s the ADDIE Model?
If you’re new to the eLearning world then the term ADDIE might sound like a name. But it’s one of the most traditionally used methods in instructional design. This course development model has a 5 step process. The process is linear with each step piggybacking on the previous one.
The 5 Steps of ADDIE
Analysis
Research and gather data on the target audience, instructors, and content. Take your time and dig deep. The more you know the better.
Design
Using the data that was gathered in your analysis, a storyboard is created that will outline the entire course including course objectives, content, basic layout, and potential outcomes.
Development
Put all the pieces together from your analysis and design to produce your product. Prepare and create your deliverables for your course, then launch a pilot test.
Implementation
This is where your learners will now have access to your course.
Evaluation
Measure if the learners and instructors were able to reach their learning objectives within the course.
What’s the AGILE approach?
The AGILE approach is quite different from the ADDIE model, yet has many of the same elements. If we were to look at both models as a race, then ADDIE would be like a marathon. While AGILE is more like a relay race. Each sprint or “leg” is a race in itself. We call these individual sprints, iterations.
With the AGILE design, you work with your entire team and collaborate with your client constantly. You still conduct an analysis and design, but you brainstorm with your collaborators to break the course into multiple pieces. This is referred to as chunking. Unlike the ADDIE model, which is linear and you finish the entire course with a final product at the end; AGILE uses iterations with 1-2 week sprints to complete chunks of work. Each chunk is developed and evaluated by the client to approve or tweak before moving onto the next part of the course.
ADDIE vs AGILE
ADDIE model spends more time on analysis and design to ensure assumptions are correct. This can help save money with development and implementation costs later.
ADDIE is ideal for well-defined projects that require little to no change; and where the client may have little time to devote. Requires less project management.
ADDIE model must complete the entire course before going to learners and instructors. At this point, it could be too late to fix design flaws and other issues.
AGILE uses elements of ADDIE in sprints and iterations to break work into chunks.
AGILE is more flexible and includes a collaborative team including the client to provide constant feedback so changes can be made continually as needed. This also allows for transparency of the project.
AGILE requires more project management and focus on time management.
What’s the verdict?
Both methodologies as mentioned have their benefits and downfalls.
The ADDIE model is more of a waterfall approach. It’s been around for decades and most likely isn’t going anywhere soon.
AGILE is designed to help create courses quickly with flexibility for change. It puts the client and learners first. It’s all about customer service, so it’s easy to see the appeal and it’s growing popularity.
Depending on the needs of your project, your team, and your client will all factor into what approach is best suited for you.
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