Successive Approximation Model (SAM)
The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) is an iterative instructional design framework that focuses on collaboration, flexibility, and frequent learner feedback. Developed by Michael Allen, SAM aims to create effective and engaging learning experiences by emphasizing continuous improvement and refinement throughout the design and development process.
This approach is particularly well-suited for projects that require flexibility and agility in response to changing learner needs and evolving content, as SAM is built on the idea that traditional linear instructional design approaches often result in disconnected and ineffective learning solutions. Instead, SAM focuses on collaboration, rapid prototyping, and continuous refinement to develop learning experiences that closely align with learners' needs and produce meaningful outcomes.
The Successive Approximation Model has gained recognition and success in the field of instructional design for several reasons –
Learner-Centric Approach: SAM places learners at the center of the design process. By involving learners early and often, designers can create learning experiences that resonate with learners' needs, preferences, and goals.
Frequent Feedback Loops: SAM's iterative nature encourages regular feedback from stakeholders, subject matter experts, and learners themselves. This ongoing feedback loop ensures that the learning solution is continuously refined and improved based on real-world input.
Agility and Adaptability: SAM's flexible approach allows instructional designers to adapt to changing requirements, content updates, or shifts in learner needs. This adaptability is particularly valuable in today's rapidly changing educational landscape.
Rapid Prototyping: SAM's emphasis on creating prototypes and mock-ups early in the design process enables designers to visualize and test ideas quickly. This approach helps identify potential issues and improvements before committing to a final design.
Higher Engagement and Effectiveness: The focus on collaboration, relevance, and learner involvement often results in learning experiences that are more engaging, effective, and closely aligned with desired outcomes.
Shortened Development Cycles: SAM's iterative cycles lead to faster development and deployment of learning solutions, which can be especially advantageous in time-sensitive projects.
The SAM process consists of three main phases, each involving multiple iterations –
Preparation Phase: In this phase, the project team collaborates to gather information, define learning objectives, and identify the target audience's needs. It's essential to establish clear goals and a solid understanding of what learners need to achieve.
Iterative Design Phase: This phase involves iterations of the steps design, review and revise, design and develop, and review and revise. Here’s what each iteration first focuses on –
Iteration 1 - Design: Create a prototype of the learning experience, often called an "Alpha" version. This prototype is a rough representation of the final product, intended to capture the core ideas and concepts.
Iteration 2 - Review and Revise: Gather feedback from stakeholders and learners based on their experience with the Alpha version. Use this feedback to refine and improve the design, making necessary adjustments.
Iteration 3 - Design and Develop: Build on the revised design to create a more polished version, known as the "Beta" version. This version should align more closely with the final product's look and feel.
Iteration 4 - Review and Revise: Once again, gather feedback on the Beta version and make additional refinements based on the input received.
Implementation Phase: Develop the final version of the learning experience based on the insights gained from previous iterations. This version should be ready for deployment to learners.
Final Review: Conduct a final review to ensure the learning experience meets the desired objectives and quality standards.
The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) has proven successful in assisting instructional system designers by offering a learner-centered, iterative, and flexible approach to creating effective and engaging learning experiences. Its emphasis on collaboration, rapid prototyping, and continuous refinement has led to improved learning outcomes and more responsive instructional design practices.
