What was the model?
Gerlach and Ely Design Model
What is the point of the model?
It appears that they wanted to create a simpler model that focused on group work and can be combined easily with other models. This model pretty much jumps into the design process where most instructors already are – ready for development. Often times, schools will do the analysis phase and some of the design phase of ADDIE before bringing instructors in. So this design model appears more practical for the average instructor.
How is the model different from what you already know? How is it the same?
The focus on group work is different than models that I am used to. Group work is possible in other design models, but is usually just one of many possible design solutions. There is also a focus on pre/post learner assessment that you often don’t see written into many design models.
It is similar in that it is iterative and that it has several steps that are not linear. While ADDIE and others can be linear, they are often designed to not be strictly linear.
Is this model something you may use? Why or why not?
It may be something I can use parts of, but seeing that I will be teaching University professors, I won’t be using the pre/post assessment too much. Professors seem to hate taking those even if they give them. I like the process for creating group work and allocating resources. That could be a very useful method to use when designing group work.
How is an ID model different from a theoretical model (i.e. social constructivism)? Why is this distinction important?
Theoretical models often address how learning happens, where do we find truth, and other larger questions along those lines. ID models look at the practical side of how to create instruction and activities for learners. The distinction is important because theoretical models tell you how learners will learn, and ID models help you to create instruction that can make that learning occur utilizing content, activities, assessments, and other educational materials.
Do you think such a differentiation will matter for a client?
Well, when referring to clients, possibly not. They will usually know what they want to see happen with a course, but they may not see the difference between the two. However, as a designer, we need to know the differences and be able to address them in our design. Our clients will probably have some kind of idea of how they think learning occurs, and we don’t want to create something in a different direction without interacting with the client first and bringing them on board with the theoretical and ID models they need.