Steps in Model

Strengths

Weaknesses

Linear Model Modules are broken up into topics. Each individual topic has a learning experience and is then assessed before students can move on to the next topic. A final assessment must be passed to move on to the next module. Content is in a clear and defined order. Pacing is easy to set and implement. Class discussions and group work can be easily integrated into the instruction as most students will be at the same point at the same time. No student flexibility and less differentiation.

Hypercontent-designed Model Content is categorized into modules. Topics in each module are presented in various ways and an assessment is created. Assessments must be passed before moving on to the next module. Students can work on topics in an order that makes sense to them. There is still some structure so that most students will at least be in the same module at the same time.

Similarities

Differences

Personal Preferences

Students may not pick the most effective order for their learning style. Content is organized into units/modules. Both are Unit-Module-Topic (UMT) models. Course ending assessments are typical. The instructor orders the modules. Each topic is assessed, and each module is assessed. The instructor selects the order of topics within the modules in the linear model, but students select the topic order in the hypercontent-designed model. Because of district and state mandated assessments, it seems that most schools function on the linear model. There is a set curriculum with a predetermined order to correspond with the mandatory assessments. In Physics, the linear model makes sense as the curriculum constantly builds on itself. With that being said, there are a few modules that could be rearranged, but the topics within them would have to stay in a certain order. At the high school level, the linear model may be most effective; however, the hypercontent-designed model could be successful with teacher guidance. The teacher could give suggested paths of learning and assist students in selecting the most beneficial path for their individual needs.