The Model
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At its core, the ASSURE model aims to ensure success of the learner and the curriculum. The first step is to analyze (A) the learners - who are they? Do the learners have specific needs? What do they already know? How will they learn best? Next, clearly stated objectives (S) are created based on standards and goals. These objectives are required to be specific and measurable, ensuring the instructor knows the end goal. Selecting the media and materials (S) come next in the process. Finding materials that will engage the learner and accurately represent the material that the lesson aims to teach. The materials can be created or redesigned. The media should complement the material, and either teach, or measure the stated objectives. Utilizing the media and materials (U) comes next and prepares the instructor to thouroughly understand the materials and media used in the instruction. This step also ensures that the media is appropriate for the lesson. Requiring participation (R) from the learners comes next and is mostly self explanatory. The learner participates in the lesson, the instructor offers feedback, to the student, on the learning. Finally, evaluation and revision (E) require the instructor to assess the learning of students to assess the environment and effectiveness of the lesson. Revisions are made based on this analysis and the lesson changes are reflected in the next teaching of the lesson. Each step of the process is equally important and should be addressed with each lesson.
The Reality
This model is time consuming. It requires a lot of work from the instructor, but don't throw in the towel just yet. If you start the year with step one, and really understand who your learners are, then future lesson creations or modifications, get easier. The learners in your classroom aren't changing that much throughout the year. My current goal is to design one blended lesson for each unit throughout the year. This summer, I would like to look at another lesson for each unit. Using this mode will help me set up an effective blended learning strategy for future years. And, in future years, starting the year with a thorough analysis of my learners will help me to get off to a great start, and maximize instructional time. Having the shell of the blended learning lessons already put together and making changes and revisions based on who my students are will be a much easier task. Since our standards (should) remain the same for the next few years, I am optimistic that I will be able to continue to use this model. The time I took to analyze my learners allowed more success in the teaching of the lesson and more engagement for the target audience. Keeping this in mind should help to stay focused through the creation of new lessons.