Dick and Carey Model
Models for Instructional Design
Podcast Project
The Dick and Carey Model is a detailed planning strategy for creating effective instruction, lessons, courses and training. The following audio recording represents my research and readings, synthesis of ideas and best-practices, and reporting on the subject.
This sample podcast episode is presented in partial fulfillment of a graduate course on Instructional Design Models that I recently completed at the University of Maryland (2020). Below the podcast player, you’ll find a full written transcript. This additional information is provided for accessibility, allowing non-hearing people to read its content.
Click to Listen (4 min 22 sec):
Transcript of audio
Today’s Topic is Instructional Design using the Dick & Carey model. Walter Dick & Lou and James Carey developed their design process in 1978 and its considered a “systematic design model” because it uses a coherent strategy for planning course modules and lessons.
By systematic we mean applying a purposeful and deliberate method for organizing curriculum and learning experiences. So the strategy guides us in preparing individual lessons but also takes us beyond the individual lessons where our planning will ensure that all the lessons, courses, and training work together to meet overall learning goals. Dick & Carey model guides us through 9 components of design.
The first step is to clarify learning goals and objectives. This is the most important step because everything hinges on it. Here, we’re looking to identify the gaps between desired competency levels and actual levels. So a needs assessment and Consultation with a subject-matter expert Would be a good place to start.
Stage 2 is doing An Instructional Analysis to identify the target skills and desired knowledge; then in Stage 3 We Analyze Learners and the Context for learning. So, Who is our target population? And What do they already know? Where will learning take place? We’ll collect this data to help with things like Selecting the best delivery method. One straight forward way to get this information Is a simple survey or interview.
At Stage 4, we Write our Performance Objectives. Defining exactly what our learners will be able to do by the end of the unit of instruction. Dick & the Careys state that these objectives should be written in 3 parts:
Describe each skill and the resources needed to achieve it; Describe behaviors related to each skill being specific about actions, content & concepts; And then also Describe specific Criteria for determining whether the performance of the skill is acceptable or not. For example— I hope to design lessons related to my art practice And help other artists market themselves better. Like how to organize an art show or how to sell your own art. So I might define a performance objective this way:
At your local art market on Saturday, You will successfully prepare your booth for the day by setting up your tent, tables and artwork in an attractive display without imposing on your neighbors and be ready to receive shoppers when the market opens precisely at 10am. This example identifies the Condition, the Behaviors and evaluation Criteria. Next, we choose an assessment instrument. Like a multiple choice test, writing an essay, or completing a live performance. The measurement method should match the stated behavior type in the objectives. In Stage 6 Develop the Instructional Strategy. This is the main component for instruction. Could be a lecture, readings, or group activity.
If you’ve studied Learning Theories — like Constructivism or Behaviorism— apply them here, keeping learning goals in mind. Next, Select the Instructional Materials, Aligning them to match the objectives and the chosen assessment instrument. Use existing materials when possible.
Finally, Do both Formative and Summative Evaluations. The difference between the two is their purpose: Formative is trying to identify needed improvements during instruction. Summative should identify strengths and improvements made after instruction. Overall, I can see that this model would be effective used for planning most any situation as a detailed outline Or “checklist” Reminding me to keep looking back at my objectives — reviewing and revising my plan, And to make sure that every aspect of my instruction plan is sound — Keeping in mind the learning environment, resources, materials, facilitation, delivery method and every other aspect of the instructional “system”. And ensuring that all things align with the desired outcomes.
So… There are the 9 components of the Dick & Carey Model. A systematic approach to instructional design For promoting more effective academic success! Thanks for listening. [END of transcript]