Table of Contents
- Overview
- The Model
- Using SAM to Create or Revise an Assignment or Project
- Pros
- Cons
- Resources
- References/Recommendations
The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) is a simplified version of the ADDIE Model designed specifically to elicit feedback and build working models earlier in the process. Developed by Dr. Michael Allen of Allen Interactions, this model uses a recursive rather than linear process for course development. The simplest SAM model is composed of three parts: Preparation, Iterative Design, and Iterative Development. The key word here is iterative, which is the basis for this model and signals that each step is meant to be repeated and revisited.
The Preparation phase begins with gathering all needed information and context for the project; the content and scope of this phase will vary greatly depending on the project or course. The hallmark of the end of the first phase of this model is the “Savvy Start”, which encourages brainstorming, sketching, and prototyping and involve as many interested parties as you can as you develop the material: colleagues, advisors, and, if you’re lucky enough to have them as a resource, students.
In the second, Iterative Design phase, the goal is to design and prototype the material so that it can be evaluated by the interested parties. The logic here is that it is easier to give feedback and evaluate a product that exists rather than one that is only an idea and allows for more extensive review and testing.
In the final Iterative Development phase, the finished prototype is fully developed and implemented. Once it has been used, it can be evaluated and run back through development and implementation phases, if necessary.
- Preparation Phase: Information Gathering and Background
- Iterative Design Phase: Design, Prototype, and Review
- Iterative Development Phase: Develop, Implement, and Evaluate
Using SAM to Create or Revise an Assignment or Project
Many of you may teach the same course semester after semester, so you are probably already using some form of SAM. You likely noticed something in an assignment or project did not work as you had intended, so you make changes to that piece before the following semester.
Your process may look something like this:
Step One: Gather Materials
Step Two: Meet with your Team (Colleagues, students, etc.)
Step Three: Create a Prototype of the Assignment
Step Four: Ask for feedback
Step Five: Make changes
- Allows for constant reevaluation and assessment of materials
- Elicits feedback from all interested parties
- Developed rapidly
- Can be a time-consuming and clunky process
- Can lack cohesion due to the inclusion of so many different voices
- Is more concerned with engagement than effective learning
Leaving ADDIE for SAM: An Agile Model for Developing the Best Learning Experiences [E-Book]
Advanced Instructional Design for Successive E-Learning: based on the Successive Approximation Model (SAM) [Journal Article]
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References/Recommendations
Adams, T. (2017, Oct. 13). Would you leave ADDIE for Sam?. Embridge Consulting. Retrieved from: https://embridgeconsulting.com/addie-sam-instructional-design-method/
Allen Interactions. (2021). E-Learning development with SAM. Allen Interactions. Retrieved from: https://www.alleninteractions.com/services/custom-learning/sam/elearning-development
Mazhar, W. (2018, Oct. 31). Sam model: Best instructional design model for short deadlines and staying on budget. 360eLearning. Retrieved from: http://360elearning.com/blog/sam-model-best-instructional-design-model-for-short-deadlines-and-staying-on-budget/
Jung, H., Kim, Y., Lee, H., & Shin, Y. (2019). Advanced design for successive E-Learning: Based on the successive approximation model (SAM). International Journal on E-Learning. 18(2), 191-204.
Rimmer, T. (2016). An introduction to SAM for instructional designers. Articulate Global, Inc. Retrieved from https://community.articulate.com/series/trina-s-articles-6cdd12e9-9841-4136-bf3c-31b0915519e1/articles/an-introduction-to-sam-for-instructional-designers
Sites, R. (2021). How do I do a savvy start?. Allen Interactions. Retrieved from: https://info.alleninteractions.com/iterative-design-in-action-implementing-the-savvy-start
FAQs
The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) is a simplified version of the ADDIE Model designed specifically to elicit feedback and build working models earlier in the process. Developed by Dr. Michael Allen of Allen Interactions, this model uses a recursive rather than linear process for course development.
What are the 3 steps of a SAM plan? ›
It prioritizes creating multiple quick, rough prototypes very early in the design process, then returning to improve on these prototypes in successive rounds of design and development. The SAM approach consists of three phases: preparation, iterative design, and iterative development.
What is the SAM process? ›
SAM, the Successive Approximations Model, is an iterative process model and a different approach to the development of instructional design products. It addresses the performance need through iterations, repeated small steps, rather than with perfectly executed giant steps.
What model is Sam? ›
What Is the SAM Model? The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) is a popular eLearning development model that emphasizes rapid development over perfection. This model encourages users to obtain feedback and make quick adjustments, rather than obsessing over one perfect solution.
What is successive approximation in simple terms? ›
Successive approximation is the process of reinforcing steps of desirable behaviors which are getting closer to the target behavior. In other words, rewarding a student for doing something that is close to what you want them to do. By doing so, you move the expectation closer to the ultimate desired behavior.
What are the benefits of the SAM model? ›
The model provides several benefits, including flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and an iterative approach to e-learning development. By applying SAM to e-learning development, organizations can ensure that their e-learning content is effective and meets the needs of the learners.
What is the difference between Addie and Sam? ›
The Successive Approximation Model (SAM) unlike Addie's five large sequential steps, the Successive Approximation Model (SAM) is a more cyclical approach involving three iterations on the familiar instructional design phases of evaluation/analysis, design, and development.
What are the disadvantages of the SAM model? ›
One of the disadvantages of SAM is that it can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Because SAM requires frequent testing and evaluation, you need to allocate enough time and resources for these activities, and ensure that they are done properly and systematically.
What is the purpose of Sam? ›
It is a directory that organizes federal government users and establishes relationships between each department or independent agency's sub-tiers and its offices.
How does Sam learning work? ›
Our mobile-friendly platform allows student access on any device with internet access and the A.I. automatically fills individual students' learning gaps, dramatically reducing teacher workload.
The System for Award Management (SAM.gov) is an official website of the U.S. Government. There is no cost to use SAM.gov.
What are the principles of Sam design? ›
The SAM model consists of three main phases: preparation, iterative design, and iterative development. In the preparation phase, you gather information about the learning problem, the learners, the context, and the performance goals. You also create a high-level design concept and a project plan.
What is better than Addie? ›
When should you use the SAM model over the ADDIE model? Compared to the ADDIE model, the SAM model is better suited for learning programs requiring a faster development timeline or courses needing frequent changes or updates.
What is successive approximation theory? ›
Successive approximation, depicted in Figure 8.25, is an iterative approach. The major blocks of this converter are the sample and hold, the comparator, a successive approximation register (SAR), and a DAC. At the start of each conversion, the SAR bits are all set to zero and the output of the DAC is also zero.
What is the successive approximation technique in ABA? ›
Successive approximations play a key role in shaping behavior. Initially, individuals receive reinforcement for performing simpler behaviors that approximate the desired behavior, and as they progress, reinforcement is provided for behaviors that more closely resemble the final goal.
What is the successive approximation method used for? ›
Detailed Solution
The successive approximation technique is used in Successive approximation ADC to convert the analog signal into the digital data stream. The basic principle is that binary regression, in which analog input is compared with DAC reference voltage which is repeatedly divided in half.
What is the method of successive approximation known as? ›
The successive approximations method (SAM) is one of the well known classical methods for solving integral equations [1]. It is also called the Picard iteration method in the literature. In fact, this method provides a scheme that one can use for solving integral equations or initial value problems.
