Identifying Learning Gaps

How do you determine gaps in student learning? 

A gap in learning is the difference between where students are in their learning and where they should be. A gap is frequently caused by an obstacle or misconception. An obstacle is something that stands in the way of progress. A misconception is a mistaken thought, idea, or misunderstanding. In order to determine gaps in student learning, teachers must be able to anticipate and analyze evidence of learning. Teachers must also plan instructional modifications to address these learning gaps. Distinguishing between evaluative and descriptive feedback is important for teachers to be able to do. By providing descriptive feedback, teachers are helping students to close their learning gaps.


How do you address learning gaps during daily instruction? 

To address learning gaps, during the planning stage, it is important for teachers to anticipate learning gaps and what you will do to address them. After evidence of learning is collected and documented the evidence must be analyzed to determine which gaps actually exist. Finally, instruction must be adjusted and descriptive feedback provided to students so existing gaps can be closed.

Why do you think it is important to anticipate obstacles and misconceptions and to identify strategies to address them while planning your lesson?

It is important to anticipate and address obstacles and misconceptions in order to move forward in learning. Teachers must decide how they will adjust instruction and provide descriptive feedback. Giving students who have are having trouble in their learning possible strategies to help them is important because it will provide them with a variety of ways to address their obstacles and misconceptions. As teachers, we must already have anticipated that our students may have these misconceptions and be ready with different strategies to provide if that is the case.