Understanding by Design

Understanding by Design Model Overview 

The understanding by design model(UbD) model, developed by Grant Wigging and Jay McTighe is an instructional design framework focused on designing curricula and institutions to promote deep understanding and transfer of knowledge. The model consists of three stages which are discussed below. 

Stage 1: Identify Desired Results

• Establish Goals and Objectives: Identify overarching  learning goals and objectives

• Determine Essential questions: Develop essential questions that provoke inquiry, guiding students to uncover and engage with the key concepts of the curriculum.

• Define knowledge and skills: Clearly outline the knowledge and skills that students should acquire by the end of the learning experience. 

Stage 2: Determine Acceptable Evidence

• Plan Assessment: Design various assessments that align with the identified goals and objectives

• Identify performance Tasks:  Develop authentic and meaningful performance tasks that require students to transfer their learning to real-world situations. 

• Create Rubrics and Criteria: Establish clear criteria and rubrics for evaluating students' performance. 

Stage 3: Plan Learning Experiences 

• Design Learning activities: Develop engaging and purposeful learning experiences that align with the goals and assessments. 

• Incorporate Instructional Strategies: Select instructional strategies, resources, and materials that support the learning goals.

• Organize Learning Resources: Gather and organize resources that are aligned with the identified goals and objectives. 

Understanding by Design Implications 

The UbD model has several implications for instructional design, which influences how instructional designers structure curriculum, instruction, and assessments. Here are some key implications

1. Curriculum Alignment: Using the UbD model ensures instructional designers design curriculums that are aligned with the overarching goals. This alignment helps create a cohesive and purposeful educational experience for students. 

2. Assessment Practices: Instructional designers should prioritize the development of varied and authentic assessments that measure students' understanding and transfer of knowledge. 

3. Student-Centered: UbD promotes student-centered learning experiences. Instructional designers should create learning experiences that foster and encourage inquiry, critical thinking, and student engagement. 

4. Inclusion of Differentiated Instructions: Recognizing learner diversity, Ubd encourages differentiated instructions. Instructional designers should implement strategies that address different learning styles, abilities, and preferences. 

UbD Strengths and Limitations