Dick and Carey Model Diagram

Dick and Carey Model Diagram

Your guide to using the Dick and Carey Model for your instructional design projects.

Dick and carey model

8 Core Principles

Why it's great to use

Tips for first-time users

Learn some background information about the Dick and Carey Model.

Take a look at the eight core principles of the model that you can apply to your projects.

Learn about why this model is great for novice instructional designers.

Gather some tips for how you can use this model in practice, especially if this is your first time.

Tips for First-Time Users

• Tip #1: Don't Skip the Front-End Analysis
• Tip #2: Keep Your Objectives Specific and Measurable
• Tip #3: Align Everything
• Tip #4: Start Small with Formative Evaluation
• Tip #5: Use Templates and Tools
• Tip #6: Be Flexible, Not Rigid

About the Model

Developed in 1978 by Walter Dick and Lou Carey, this model views instructional design as a system of interrelated components, rather than a linear process. Think of it like a recipe: every ingredient impacts the final dish, and adjusting one part affects the rest.

The 8 Core Principles

• Principle #1: Systematic Design
• Principle #2: Analyze Learner Characteristics
• Principle #3: Define Instructional Objectives
• Principle #4: Organize Instructional Content
• Principle #5: Select Instructional Strategies
• Principle #6: Development and Implementation
• Principle #7: Conduct Formative Evaluation
• Principle #8: Summative Evaluation

Why It's Great for Novice Instructional Designers

So, why should beginner instructional designers learn the Dick and Carey Model? Because it offers structure. When you're new to this field, having a clear process can be incredibly helpful. This model encourages thoughtful planning, continual feedback, and strong alignment between goals, instruction, and assessment.