Review:
Backward Design (understanding By Design)
overall review score: 4.5
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
score is between 0 and 5
Backward Design, also known as Understanding by Design (UbD), is an instructional planning framework developed by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe. It emphasizes designing educational experiences starting with the end goals or desired learning outcomes in mind, then planning assessments and instructional activities to achieve those outcomes. The approach advocates for a clear focus on understanding and transfer of knowledge rather than mere coverage of content.
Key Features
- Starting with the end in mind: identifying clear learning objectives before designing lessons.
- Emphasis on formative and summative assessments aligned with desired outcomes.
- Focus on fostering deep understanding and transferability of knowledge.
- Structured three-stage process: identifying desired results, determining acceptable evidence, and planning learning experiences and instruction.
- Promotes student-centered learning and differentiated instruction.
Pros
- Provides a clear, goal-oriented approach to lesson planning
- Enhances student understanding and retention of material
- Aligns assessments with learning goals for better measurement of progress
- Encourages reflective teaching practices
- Supports curriculum coherence across grade levels
Cons
- Can be time-consuming to implement thoroughly
- Requires upfront clarity on objectives which may be challenging in some contexts
- May be perceived as rigid or overly structured for some educators
- Less flexibility to adapt mid-instruction if unforeseen issues arise