ISD Model

My personal assessment is that the ISD model of designing instruction can be very effective. I have been using it when writing lesson plans without even realizing it. When careful attention to each step is given, the intended results are sure to be reached. The design model contains all of the necessary steps for successful resolution of problems or needs. I feel the model itself is very strong. The weaknesses involved with the model include human error. All too often, we design instruction, and do not follow all of the steps in the process. This human error leads to instructional design flaws not based on the process but with implementation of the ISD process. Sometimes we conduct poor needs analysis, so the instruction is flawed from the start. We are assessing the wrong problem. Often we do not consider the diversity or needs of the learners. Assessment of the instruction and evaluation of the results is usually pass or fail with little reflection on the process. I think this is true in both the educational setting and the business world. In the educational setting, time is the major restraint. Teachers are so busy getting ready for the next day; they do not have time to reflect on the lesson or make improvements. In the business world, I would say that money is the main draw back. Companies often do not want to invest the money to complete all of the steps. Most people are looking for a quick fix to the problem.