SAM: Successive Approximation Model

OVERVIEW

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The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) is an instructional design model that has gained popularity for its iterative approach to designing and developing learning experiences. It is particularly well-suited for projects where time and resources are limited. SAM focuses on collaboration, efficiency, and the iterative development of high-quality instructional materials. The model consists of three main phases:

 

1. Preparation/Planning Phase:

• This initial phase involves preliminary planning and preparation. It's about gathering information, understanding the learning needs, and defining the project's scope and goals. Key activities include brainstorming, identifying performance goals, and considering the target audience's characteristics.

• Stakeholder meetings and collaborative sessions are crucial in this phase to ensure that the project's direction aligns with the learners' needs and organizational goals.

 

2. Iterative Design/Prototyping Phase:

• In this phase, the instructional design is developed through iterative design cycles, prototype development, and review. 

• Prototypes are not fully developed courses but rather simplified versions that allow for rapid construction and testing. These prototypes are used to gather feedback from stakeholders and end-users, leading to refinements and improvements in the design.

• This phase emphasizes a 'fail fast, fail cheap' approach, where issues and challenges are identified early in the process, allowing for timely and cost-effective revisions.

 

3. Iterative Development/Implementation Phase:

• Here, the focus shifts to fully developing and implementing the instructional materials based on the refined prototypes. 

• The instructional materials are produced, tested, and reviewed in multiple cycles, ensuring that each iteration improves upon the last.

• This phase includes finalizing content, integrating media elements, conducting quality assurance testing, and preparing for deployment.

• Throughout all phases, SAM emphasizes ongoing evaluation and revision. This approach allows instructional designers to adapt and refine their strategies based on real-world feedback, leading to more effective and engaging learning experiences.

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IMPLICATIONS FOR INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN

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The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) significantly impacts instructional design by emphasizing iteration, flexibility, and collaboration. Unlike traditional, linear models, SAM's iterative approach allows for continual refinement of learning materials, making it possible to incorporate changes based on feedback and testing at any stage. This method enhances collaboration, involving stakeholders, subject matter experts, and end-users throughout the design process, ensuring the learning materials meet both learner needs and organizational goals. Rapid prototyping is a key feature, enabling quick creation and testing of course versions, which helps identify and resolve issues early, thereby managing risks more effectively and avoiding costly overhauls at later stages.

 

SAM's learner-centered design ensures that learner feedback is integral, leading to more engaging and effective learning experiences. While it promotes efficient resource utilization by catching issues early, SAM also demands a significant shift in organizational culture for those accustomed to more linear methodologies. Teams must adapt to a certain level of change and ambiguity as projects under SAM are continuously evolving. This model requires skilled facilitation and project management to balance creativity with timely delivery within set budgets and timeframes. Although SAM offers numerous benefits, including the potential for more effective and relevant instructional materials, its suitability varies. It is more effective for projects with evolving requirements rather than those with rigid, unchanging constraints.

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STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

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In the realm of higher education, the strengths of the SAM model outweigh the challenges, making it an excellent choice for instructional designers. While there are scenarios where this approach is not ideal, the fundamental limitations of scope creep, excessive resource needs, and steep learning curve are not applicable here. Most higher education institutions possess the funding and qualified instructors to implement the approach. While scope creep could occur, it does not rule it out as a highly appropriate model. 

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Strengths:

1. Iterative Approach: The foremost strength of SAM lies in its iterative nature. This continuous design, development, testing, and refinement process ensures that instructional materials are consistently improved and fine-tuned. This approach guarantees that the final product effectively meets the learning objectives and adapts to feedback, making it highly effective for dynamic and evolving learning environments.

2. Stakeholder Collaboration: SAM fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, including instructional designers, subject matter experts, and learners. Early and ongoing engagement, starting from the "Savvy Start" phase, ensures that goals are aligned, communication is clear, and the instructional content developed is both relevant and engaging.

3. Flexibility and Responsiveness: The model's adaptability is significant, especially in projects where requirements might change. Its responsive nature allows for adjustments during the design process, making it ideal for projects that require quick responses to evolving needs and feedback.

 

Limitations

1. Resource-Intensive Nature: The most challenging weakness of SAM is its demand for significant resources, particularly in terms of time and personnel. The need for iterative cycles, constant feedback, and extensive collaboration can strain resources, posing a challenge for projects with limited budgets or tight schedules.

2. Complexity and Potential for Scope Creep: SAM's complexity can be a drawback, especially for more straightforward projects where its structured phases and iterative nature might be overkill, leading to prolonged development times. Additionally, the model's iterative process can inadvertently lead to scope creep, with frequent changes and refinements expanding the project's scope, impacting timelines and budgets.

3. Learning Curve: Implementing SAM effectively demands a thorough understanding of its phases and methodology. Teams unfamiliar with SAM might face a learning curve, potentially affecting the efficiency and effectiveness of the design process, especially in initial implementations.