SAM (Successive Approximation Model) for Instructional Designers
The world of instructional design requires agility, especially when learning experiences need to be refined and adapted rapidly to meet specific learner needs. This is where the SAM (Successive Approximation Model) comes into play. SAM is an iterative and flexible approach to instructional design that prioritizes rapid prototyping, continuous feedback, and improvement.
Instructional designers using SAM work in cycles of development and refinement rather than following a strict linear process like traditional models. SAM is particularly valuable in situations where speed, adaptability, and collaboration are crucial. Let’s delve into the need for instructional designers in the context of SAM, explaining why this model is essential and how it effectively meets modern educational demands.
1. Rapid Prototyping: Getting Started with Early Versions
The first key element of SAM is rapid prototyping. Instead of designing an entire course or learning program before testing it, instructional designers create a basic prototype or a “working draft” of the course. This prototype is then tested with a small group of learners, and feedback is gathered to refine and improve the content.
Think of this process like designing a new smartphone app. Instead of launching the full version right away, developers release a beta version that includes the most basic functionality. The users try it out, identify bugs or areas for improvement, and provide feedback. Developers then make the necessary adjustments before releasing the final, polished version.
In instructional design, this approach allows for early testing, meaning that designers can quickly identify and resolve potential issues with the course content, structure, or delivery method. Rapid prototyping helps instructional designers make adjustments early, reducing the risk of large-scale failures or costly revisions later on.
Example: In a corporate training scenario, an instructional designer might quickly develop a short, interactive eLearning module to teach employees how to use a new software system. Rather than waiting until the entire program is finished, they test the initial prototype with a small group of employees to gauge how effectively the training works and make necessary tweaks to improve usability and understanding.
This iterative approach allows instructional designers to focus on “getting it right” through constant feedback and refinement.
2. Iterative Development: Refining and Improving the Course
Once the initial prototype has been tested, the instructional designer moves into the next phase—iterative development. SAM’s emphasis on iteration means that the design process is never truly “complete” after the first round. Instructional designers refine, adjust, and improve the course based on feedback gathered in the prototype phase, continually revisiting and enhancing the learning experience.
This iterative cycle resembles the process of tuning a musical instrument. When a musician first tunes their instrument, it may sound off-key. After playing for a bit, they realize some strings are tighter than others, or some notes need adjustment. Each round of tuning brings the instrument closer to perfection. Similarly, in instructional design, the learning experience evolves and improves after each cycle, ensuring that the final product is effective, engaging, and aligned with learners’ needs.
Example: In a course on leadership skills, after testing the initial prototype, the instructional designer might receive feedback about the clarity of the instructional videos or how some case studies are too abstract. The designer adjusts the content by providing more relatable examples, clearer explanations, or new multimedia components. These changes then become part of the next version of the course, which is again tested with learners.
This iterative process ensures that learners are always engaging with a version of the course that has been improved upon, making the final product far more effective.
3. Continuous Feedback: Involving Stakeholders and Learners
One of the most critical aspects of SAM is continuous feedback. Throughout the design and development process, instructional designers collect feedback not only from learners but also from stakeholders, subject matter experts (SMEs), and other collaborators. The feedback loop is constant, allowing instructional designers to refine the course based on real-time input rather than relying on distant assessments that might occur after the course has been completed.
Think of a coach working with a team during a season. The coach regularly checks in with players to understand how they feel about their performance, what strategies are working, and where they need help. This ongoing dialogue allows the coach to adjust tactics throughout the season, improving the team’s overall performance. Similarly, in SAM, instructional designers continuously interact with learners and other stakeholders, using their insights to fine-tune the learning experience.
Example: During the development of an online health and safety training program, instructional designers might seek feedback from both learners and SMEs. Learners could report that certain aspects of the training are too technical or unclear, while SMEs might suggest adding new content or modifying assessments. As the instructional designer collects this feedback, they continuously make changes to improve the course, ensuring that it meets the needs of all involved.
This constant stream of feedback is what allows SAM to produce high-quality courses that resonate with learners and achieve desired learning outcomes.
4. Collaboration: Working with Stakeholders and SMEs
SAM requires close collaboration between the instructional designer, stakeholders, and subject matter experts. Since the model is iterative, instructional designers often work in close tandem with these individuals throughout the design process. Collaboration ensures that the course content remains accurate, relevant, and up to date.
Think of this as a film director working with screenwriters, actors, and producers. The director doesn’t work in isolation; they collaborate and constantly adjust the script, scenes, and overall direction based on input from the cast and crew. By keeping the lines of communication open, the director ensures the film’s vision comes together cohesively.
In the same way, instructional designers must engage with stakeholders, SMEs, and sometimes even learners, ensuring the course content is accurate, aligned with business goals, and meets learners’ needs.
Example: In the development of a software training program, the instructional designer may work closely with the IT department (SMEs) to ensure the content is technically accurate. They may also collaborate with human resources (stakeholders) to ensure the training aligns with organizational goals, such as improving employee performance or reducing software errors.
Collaboration is crucial in SAM because it helps instructional designers make informed decisions, refine course content, and create more effective learning experiences.
5. Flexibility: Adapting to Change and New Insights
A key advantage of SAM is its flexibility. Unlike linear models of instructional design, which may involve rigid steps and deliverables, SAM is fluid and adaptive. As the instructional designer moves through cycles of development, they can easily adjust their approach based on new insights, emerging technologies, or evolving learner needs.
Think of a chef adjusting a recipe midway through cooking. Perhaps they realize the dish could use a bit more spice or that a particular ingredient is unavailable. Instead of sticking rigidly to the original recipe, they adjust in real-time to improve the flavor. Similarly, instructional designers using SAM can adapt their approach based on new findings, ensuring that the course stays relevant and effective.
Example: In a training course for customer service skills, an instructional designer might initially focus on role-playing exercises and video tutorials. However, based on learner feedback or new insights into customer behavior, the designer may shift to more interactive simulations or add additional content on emotional intelligence. This flexibility ensures the training adapts to real-world needs, offering learners the most relevant and impactful learning experience.
This adaptability makes SAM especially valuable in dynamic environments where learning needs can change rapidly, such as in fast-paced corporate training or when introducing new technologies.
Why Instructional Designers Need SAM
Instructional designers are essential for creating engaging, effective learning experiences. The SAM model empowers them to be agile and responsive, embracing continuous improvement and collaboration throughout the design process. SAM allows instructional designers to quickly prototype, gather feedback, and refine content—leading to better learning outcomes and a more satisfying experience for the learners.
In today’s world, where learning needs are constantly evolving, SAM provides the flexibility and responsiveness necessary for effective instructional design. This model enables instructional designers to work closely with stakeholders, refine their courses based on real-time feedback, and ultimately create dynamic learning experiences that meet the needs of all learners.
Whether in corporate training, higher education, or eLearning, SAM is a powerful tool that ensures instructional designers can create and continuously improve courses that deliver results, making learning more impactful and relevant.
