ADDIE is a step-by-step framework used by instructional designers, training developers, and learning and development specialists to create both educational and training programs alike. ADDIE is an instructional design model and is an acronym that stands for each of its 5 stages: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The purpose of the ADDIE model is to organize content, streamline development, and ensure a structured framework for every course.
The Design stage takes place when you have completed your training plan and identified any performance gaps from the Analysis stage. This phase includes addressing said gaps, completing the training outline, and finalizing approvals with key decision-makers.
The main goal of the design phase is to develop the skeleton of the course. The main output, then, is the design and development of a prototype for the training program.
The prototype may either be through a storyboard or a detailed course plan supported by comprehensive descriptions and diagrams, or both. It should include the learning objectives and clear description of the course, a content outline, and an overview on user experience and interface.
The prototype is key in this phase of ADDIE, since it allows the Instructional Designer (ID) to create a blueprint for the course and communicate to key stakeholders what the training program is about.
Here’s a quick checklist of the design phase and its key elements:
By the end of the Design stage, the ID should have a document containing the aforementioned content that will eventually feed into the Development phase.
The ADDIE Design phase should address three important goals and answer the following questions:
If the training program is meant to be undertaken more independently, then the instructions and content should be as straight-forward as possible. A combination of both tactics will allow the learners to complete the course at their own pace while, at the same time, provide interaction with other participants.
The ID should identify the strategic elements of the training program. What kinds of materials and activities will allow the target audience to comprehend the subject matter more easily?
The education strategy should address the following:
The Analysis stage includes defining the learning outcomes and results of the training program. In the Design stage, measuring these learning outcomes should be carefully identified. It is key to measure and evaluate learners’ progress throughout the entire course.
These questions may help in defining how evaluation should be done:
To answer these questions, it is important to define the target audience according to:
Here’s a checklist of steps that can guide you through this entire phase of ADDIE:
The ADDIE design phase is critical for the next stage - Development. Prior to creating the actual course, IDs should carefully create the skeleton and prototype to ensure that it remains aligned to the learning objectives of the target audience. Having a well-defined prototype also ensures that the entire training program is conducive to participants’ learning needs and types. The more time and careful thinking devoted to this phase, the easier it will be to develop the course, and less time wasted on potential do-overs.