Successive Approximation Model

By Maddison Barbour, Lubna Firdaus, Kylee Koosman

Dr. Michael Allen developed the Successive Approximation Model in response to the restrictive nature of ADDIE and the complicated revisions Instructional Designers were developing based on that model. He believed in a simpler core process to Instructional Design: Design, Develop, and Evaluate. This is the core of the Successive Approximation Model (SAM). In his book “Leaving Addie for Sam: An Agile Model for Developing the Best Learning Experiences,” Dr. Allen states, “ADDIE appears to fall short…Let it no longer dictate a process that’s simply too slow, laborious, and ineffectual. It’s time to move on” (Allen, p. 30). The SAM design was built on Dr. Allen’s belief that the core model for Instructional Design ought to involve the learner “early and continually throughout the process” and be clear on “where and when to focus energy and resources for maximum benefit” (Allen, p. 40-41).

Key Words

• • • Approximation

Draft or prototype of the final solution.

• • • Successive

Progress made in small, quick steps.

• • • Iterative

“An iterative process provides opportunities to experiment, test, and revise the designs. Development in small steps, with frequent evaluations, allows for changes that can be modified or reversed at a time when changes cost the least” (Jung et al., p. 193).

Learn More

• Why Use SAM?

• Phases of SAM

• Strengths and Weaknesses 

• Applications and Examples  

• References and Resources