ADDIE Model:

Working together to create learning materials for the first time was a big learning experience, with plenty of challenges along the way. At first, we were so focused on cramming in features that we didn’t fully think about how students would actually engage with the material. But once we applied the ADDIE model, everything changed. It really helped us step back and focus on creating exercises that were not just packed with content, but also meaningful and productive for learners.

The ADDIE model gave us a clear process to follow, and because of that, we were able to make the content more interactive and engaging. Now that we’ve used the model and completed our presentation/workshop, I feel confident that future projects will be even better. I’m excited to take what we’ve learned and keep improving how we design learning experiences that really make a difference.

Dick and Carey Model:

In ETEC 6440, I had much more control over the course design since it was an independent project, unlike previous group efforts. My experience with the ADDIE model from ETEC 5440 really came in handy, especially for breaking things down step by step. The toughest part of the project was figuring out the terminal objectives, but once I organized everything into three modules, it all started to make sense.

I also became more comfortable with the Dick and Carey model and was proud of how efficiently I built a polished website to host the course. Just a semester ago, creating a website like this would have taken me ages, and I wouldn’t have known which tools to use or how to embed content to make it look good. For this project, I used Google Sites, which made embedding content seamless, especially since it integrates easily with Google Docs and Forms.

The formative evaluation step of the Dick and Carey model was a game-changer. It really tied everything together and showed me how valuable early feedback can be. I realized this step applies to more than just education—it’s something I could use in any large project, even in IT. For example, in software development, we often gather feedback from a small group before finalizing updates, which is just like a formative evaluation.

Overall, both the ADDIE and Dick and Carey models have been incredibly valuable. Now that I’ve worked hands-on with both, I feel much more confident in instructional design and project management.

Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction:

Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction is such a helpful way to think about designing lessons. I really like how it focuses on engaging students, building on what they already know, and giving them plenty of chances to practice and get feedback. The steps also feel like they naturally get more challenging as they progress. The early steps, like gaining attention and connecting to prior knowledge, are more about setting the stage, while later steps—like applying knowledge and transferring it to real-world contexts—require deeper thinking and problem-solving.

This progression makes the model adaptable to different learners and teaching styles, while also encouraging me to structure lessons more intentionally. It’s a practical tool for making learning both impactful and meaningful.