After reviewing all the strengths and limitations of the ADDIE model, this week I will focus on the Dick and Carey Model, proposed by Walter Dick and Lou Carey in 1978.
In the Dick and Carey Model, the phases are interdependent in a systemic perspective. It is also called as the Systems Approach model.
The Dick and Carey Model is centered on the learner and the outcome. The main difference with the ADDIE model is that all its phases are interconnected. We saw how the ADDIE model has a well defined 5 phases, and even though it is iterative, its phases are not connected.
Let’s take a look at each of the phases:
Dick and Carey Model by Pilar González| 1. Identify Instructional Goals | Definition and alignment with the organization. The goals should be clear and based on real-world skills. |
| 2. Conduct Instructional Analysis | Measurement of the current state of skills in the target audience. The performance gap will be filled with your learning goals. |
| 3. Identify Entry Behaviors | Measurement of the behaviors, traits and motivation of the target audience. |
| 4. Write Performance Objectives | Creation of SMART objectives, tasks, processes to be mastered and assessments. |
| 5. Develop Criterion Test | Development of criterion test to determine the effectiveness of the instruction. |
| 6. Develop Instruction Strategy | Decision about the best learning theories to be applied in the course, based on the last analysis and learners’ needs. |
| 7. Develop and Select Instructional Materials | Decision about the materials, tools, exercises and delivery media. |
| 8. Develop and Conduct Formative Evaluation | Assessment of effectiveness of the learning experience. The feedback obtained will be used to iterate the process again. |
| 9. Develop and Conduct Summative Evaluation | Assessment of the learner’s satisfaction, learning gained and benefits of the course for the organization. |
| 10. Ongoing Revision | Continually review and revise information based on feedback provided by stakeholders. |
Strengths and Limitations in Education
From my point of view, comparing the Dick and Carey Model with the ADDIE model, the general process of the design is very similar, however there are big differences.
The main difference is the interdependence and interconnection of all the phases, working as a System, instead of as isolated phases like in the ADDIE model. This interdependence increases the alignment between all the elements, giving consistency to the learning course.
I like how the Dick and Care is more specific about the Analysis phase, breaking down this phase into smaller ones to control the process (phases 1, 2 and 3). The first phases are really important since this will be the foundation for the whole learning course. However, the time dedicated for the Analysis increases and could be excessive for some projects.
Another strength that has in common with the ADDIE model is its flexibility, and could be applied to many contexts, including Education K-12, where this model has become very popular.
Finally, one of the limitations that has in common with the ADDIE model is the time-consuming disadvantage due to the thorough analysis process and continuous revisions. Considering the amount of work that our teachers usually have, implementing this model could be exhausting and overwhelming.
Implications of the Dick and Carey Model for Instructional Design
After taking into consideration the strengths and limitations of the Dick and Carey Model, and comparing it with the ADDIE model, this is my point of view for its application to Instructional Design:
- For beginners, I prefer the simplicity of the ADDIE Model, being easier to implement. However, I would include the phase 3 of the Dick and Carey Model (Identify Entry Behaviors). As an Instructional Coach with a background in Psychology, I know how important it is to analyze the motivation and attitude of your learners if you want to effectively design your learning experience.
- I would also consider the ongoing revision during the whole process, instead of being seen as the last phase (ADDIE Model). Being flexible and being ready to make any adjustment during the process is a guarantee of success.
- The Dick and Carey Model, as the ADDIE Model, is flexible enough to be applied to any context and any type of learning. However, I would appreciate more guidance when we want to design an online course where technology is present and how it will impact learning.
