Backward Design Model vs. Taba's Model

Attribute	Backward Design Model	Taba's Model
Focus	Starts with desired results and works backwards to plan instruction	Emphasizes starting with the learner and their needs, interests, and experiences
Process	Identify learning goals, determine acceptable evidence, plan learning experiences	Diagnose learner needs, formulate objectives, plan learning experiences
Flexibility	Allows for flexibility in how goals are achieved	Provides flexibility in how objectives are met based on learner needs
Assessment	Assessment is a key component in determining if learning goals have been met	Assessment is used to diagnose learner needs and evaluate progress

Introduction

When it comes to instructional design, educators have a variety of models to choose from to guide their planning and implementation. Two popular models are the Backward Design Model and Taba's Model. Both models offer unique approaches to designing curriculum and instruction, each with its own set of attributes and benefits.

Backward Design Model

The Backward Design Model, developed by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe, is a framework that emphasizes starting with the end goal in mind. This model encourages educators to first identify the desired learning outcomes and then work backward to determine the best way to achieve those outcomes. The three key stages of the Backward Design Model are identifying desired results, determining acceptable evidence, and planning learning experiences and instruction.

One of the main attributes of the Backward Design Model is its focus on student understanding. By beginning with the end goal in mind, educators can ensure that their instruction is aligned with the desired learning outcomes. This helps to create a more coherent and purposeful curriculum that is centered around what students should know and be able to do.

Another attribute of the Backward Design Model is its emphasis on assessment. By determining acceptable evidence of learning upfront, educators can design assessments that accurately measure student understanding of the desired outcomes. This allows for more meaningful assessment practices that provide valuable feedback to both students and teachers.

The Backward Design Model also promotes a more intentional and systematic approach to curriculum planning. By starting with the end goal and working backward, educators can ensure that their instruction is focused and purposeful. This can lead to more effective teaching and learning experiences for students.

Overall, the Backward Design Model is a valuable framework for educators looking to create curriculum and instruction that is student-centered, assessment-driven, and purposeful.

Taba's Model

Taba's Model, developed by Hilda Taba, is a curriculum development model that emphasizes a more iterative and collaborative approach to planning. This model involves a series of steps, including diagnosing needs, formulating objectives, selecting content, organizing content, and evaluating the curriculum. Taba's Model is known for its flexibility and adaptability, allowing educators to make adjustments based on ongoing feedback and reflection.

One of the key attributes of Taba's Model is its focus on collaboration. This model encourages educators to work together to develop curriculum that meets the needs of all students. By involving multiple stakeholders in the curriculum development process, educators can ensure that diverse perspectives and voices are represented in the planning and implementation of instruction.

Another attribute of Taba's Model is its emphasis on flexibility. This model recognizes that curriculum development is an ongoing and dynamic process that may require adjustments based on student needs, feedback, and changing circumstances. Educators using Taba's Model are encouraged to be responsive and adaptable in their planning and implementation of instruction.

Taba's Model also promotes a more holistic approach to curriculum development. By considering the needs and interests of all students, educators can create curriculum that is inclusive and relevant to a diverse range of learners. This can lead to more engaging and meaningful learning experiences for students.

Overall, Taba's Model is a valuable framework for educators looking to create curriculum that is collaborative, flexible, and responsive to the needs of all students.

Comparing Attributes

While the Backward Design Model and Taba's Model have distinct attributes, they also share some commonalities. Both models emphasize the importance of starting with clear learning outcomes and aligning instruction with those outcomes. They also both recognize the value of ongoing assessment and feedback in the curriculum development process.

However, the Backward Design Model tends to be more focused on student understanding and assessment, while Taba's Model places a greater emphasis on collaboration and flexibility. Educators may choose to use one model over the other based on their preferences and priorities in curriculum development.

Ultimately, both the Backward Design Model and Taba's Model offer valuable frameworks for educators to use in designing curriculum and instruction. By understanding the attributes of each model, educators can make informed decisions about which approach best aligns with their goals and values in education.