How to Use Design Thinking with ADDIE

Using Design Thinking with the ADDIE model of Instructional Design:

The Design Thinking Process

Design thinking is a problem-solving methodology that can be used in various contexts, including business, education, and the non-profit sector. The core principle of design thinking is that solutions should be developed through an iterative process of research, prototyping, and testing.

This approach allows for a more user-centred and efficient design process, allowing for early feedback and refinements before a final product is released.

Now, every training solution aims to meet the needs of the learners. Thus, examining the process makes sense to see how it can be leveraged to design and deliver training that solves learner problems.

The design thinking process is an approach to problem-solving that starts with understanding the needs of the people who will be using the solution.

Only after the needs are fully understood, you can define the problem. After the problem is defined, potential solutions can be generated.

These solutions are then evaluated against criteria such as feasibility and impact before a final solution is selected and implemented.

Throughout the process, it is important to solicit feedback from stakeholders and end users. You should be open to making changes based on that feedback. The design thinking process is an iterative one; through this continuous cycle of learning and refinement, the best solutions are found.

The ADDIE Model Overview

The ADDIE model comprises five phases: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The ADDIE model is a framework for instructional design that can be used to incorporate design thinking into your instruction plans.

Incorporating Design Thinking into Your Instruction Plans

Design Thinking is iterative while the ADDIE model is more linear. Hence, applying it to ADDIE may not seem straightforward. However, certain tips will enable you to apply Design Thinking to ADDIE.

For example, in the Analysis phase, you will identify your learners’ needs and learning objectives. So, apply Design Thinking in Analysis to identify the key problem you are trying to solve with the planned training. After you zero-in on the problem, define the needs and learning objectives. Brainstorm with the stakeholders or your learners to define the key learning objectives and the problem your training should solve. Iterate as many times as needed during this phase to have a robust problem statement and objectives. These will be used during the rest of your course design and development.

In the Design phase, you will develop a plan for meeting those objectives. To apply Design Thinking during the Design phase, brainstorm, and document learning strategies to help you achieve the learning objectives set during the Analysis phase. Keep iterating here until you have a sign-off or any prototype of course design and structure. Just like the Analysis phase, closely work with all the stakeholders to ensure that your structure flows well and helps learners achieve the learning objectives.

In the Development phase, you will create instructional materials and activities. Applying Design Thinking during the Development phase is all about executing the problem-solving solutions you identified during the Design phase. However, feel free to iterate different screen and interactivity designs during development to align with the Design Thinking mindset. This could involve:

• Writing activities for a classroom session
• Developing and including graphics that will help learners visualize solutions to problems
• Adding interactivities to self-paced eLearning courses that will engage learners and teach the required skills or solutions

In the Implementation phase, you will pilot your instruction plan with a small group of learners or stakeholders. Next, based on the feedback during implementation, you can consider updating the training content or activities.

Finally, in the Evaluation phase, you will assess the effectiveness of your instruction and adjust as needed for future updates.

Thus, on the surface it may seem difficult to apply Design Thinking to ADDIE, but when you consider Design Thinking as a mindset, rather than a fixed process, you can apply it to a variety of situations.

Overcoming Challenges of Using Design Thinking with the ADDIE Model

Design thinking is a user-centred approach to problem-solving that can be used in various settings, including educational design. However, some challenges can arise when using design thinking within the ADDIE model.

One challenge is that it focuses on generating new ideas throughout. In ADDIE, the emphasis on generating new ideas is majorly during the Analysis and Design phases. As a result, it can be difficult to integrate design thinking into the later stages of the ADDIE process.

Another challenge is that design thinking is often considered a more open-ended process, while ADDIE is linear and structured. This can make it hard to know where to start when using it within ADDIE. However, there are some ways to overcome these challenges. For example, try starting with a small pilot project to get a feel for how design thinking can be integrated into ADDIE. Or, focus on using design thinking during the Analysis and Design phases rather than trying to use it throughout the entire process. By taking these steps, you can overcome challenges associated with using design thinking in ADDIE.

Benefits of Using Design Thinking with ADDIE

Design Thinking has been gaining traction in recent years as an effective approach to problem-solving. Unlike traditional linear methods, which involve following a set of steps in a rigid order, Design Thinking is more flexible and adaptable. This makes it well-suited for use in ADDIE models for instructional design, which are often complex and require constant adjustments. In addition, Design Thinking encourages creativity and outside-the-box thinking, which can lead to more innovative and effective instructional materials. Additionally, the focus on collaboration and user feedback can help ensure that the training is aligned with the target audience’s needs. Overall, design thinking offers several potential benefits for those working in instructional design or eLearning.

Design thinking can be a useful tool for instructional designers to create more innovative and effective learning experiences. By following the steps of the design thinking process, you can generate new ideas, test them out with users, and iterate on them until you have a final product that meets the needs of your learners.

If you’re interested in learning more about eLearning and Instructional Design, check out our courses on Udemy and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Thanks for watching or reading the blog!

As an instructional designer, you always look for ways to improve your craft. Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned veteran, there is always room for improvement. One great way to sharpen your skills is by taking courses offered by Check N Click on Udemy. These courses offer practical, real-world advice you can use immediately. And best of all, they are very affordable. So what are you waiting for? Check out the course offerings today and get started on becoming a better instructional designer!

As a leader of your organization, you are always looking for ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your learning and development programs. One way to do this is to outsource some of your eLearning needs to a reputable company like Check N Click. Check N Click has a team of experienced instructional designers and developers who can help you create custom eLearning solutions that meet your organization’s unique needs. In addition, outsourcing your eLearning needs can save you time and money in the long run. Contact Check N Click today to learn more about their eLearning outsourcing services.