Just like anyone else, I can get easily distracted, behind, rushed, and overwhelmed while trying to plan for a new program. Learning that this feeling is not “just me” and that others that I look up to struggle and look for methods of to overcome the “too busy to plan” feeling has upped my game over the years. Reflecting on the steps in an Instructional Design Models is one way that I do this.
A new cohort of the Program Development Leadership Cohort (PDLC) that was kicked off this week – we start the work by reflecting on what has worked for each of us in designing programs, and considering effectiveness strategies that others have put into place that we have witnessed as successful. And then we look at how similar all of our ideas really are – and how similar the many versions of instructional design models are. Essentially – when we take time to assess needs, develop clear objectives, design a program for the primary audience, create an implementation plan for effectiveness, and then evaluate against our objectives – we are more likely to provide an effective learning experience. Sounds simple…but it does take practice – which is just what we do in PDLC.
I find reflecting on a program development model helps me to ensure that I’ve considered thoughts and ideas of others and research, and keeps me focused on the task at hand while mindful and curious about what could be. While I embrace the iterative process (in a model like Dick and Carey), I tend to lean into the ADDIE model as a simple way to think of the parts and pieces. Documenting steps and keeping notes in a place that I can find them is really key for me. At the moment OneNote is my go to…thought this does change depending on my collaborators and projects.
So…if you are thinking – “how can I make sure that my programs/projects move forward, address needs, and are welcoming to your audience – I might suggest using a PD Model to nudge your action steps and keep you moving forward. Want to know more about program development models? Check out the resources – including a short tutorial at: https://staff.cce.cornell.edu/courses/ccepdc-101/program-development-concepts-and-models
Celeste Carmichael is a Program Development Specialist for CCE Administration.