Identifying Learners’ Gaps
Instructors should evaluate any gaps between where a learner starts at and where they need to be and then design the instruction to specifically address those gaps. Examples include knowledge, skill, motivation, habit, environment, and communication gaps. Different learners will have different gaps; however, assumptions can be made. For example, learners in a graduate class most likely have a knowledge gap, so instruction should provide information specific to the subject area.
Dirksen, J. (2016). Design for how people learn (Second edition. ed.). San Francisco: New Riders.