What are three differences between ADDIE and SAM instructional design approaches?

• A. ADDIE is linear and phase-based; SAM is iterative with rapid prototyping and frequent feedback.
• B. ADDIE is nonlinear; SAM is strictly sequential.
• C. Both are the same.
• D. SAM uses only online learning.

Answer: (A)

The differences hinge on how work flows, how feedback is used, and how quickly you move from idea to delivery. ADDIE guides a project through distinct, sequential stages—Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation—carried out in order with clear handoffs between phases. Because of that structure, changes late in the process can be costly, and feedback is typically gathered toward the end of the cycle and then used to inform the next full pass.

SAM, on the other hand, uses short, repeated cycles of design, prototype, and test with frequent input from stakeholders. This makes it more flexible, with continuous learning and validation built in. Prototypes are created quickly and refined through successive iterations, which accelerates delivery and helps ensure the solution closely fits learner needs.

A practical way to see the difference is in collaboration and pace: ADDIE tends to be more linear and document-driven, with formal sign-offs at each phase, while SAM emphasizes ongoing collaboration, quicker feedback loops, and rapid refinement throughout the process. Evaluation in SAM happens in each cycle, whereas in ADDIE the formal evaluation is traditionally associated with the final phase, guiding future iterations.