Learning Progressions

A learning progression is a clearly articulated sequence of knowledge in a particular domain that communicates the vertical development of target knowledge over an extended period of time. Some aspects of learning progressions can be traced back to work in the 1960s by Jerome Bruner, who recognized that strong domain knowledge builds on previous strong domain knowledge and that deep conceptual knowledge development requires time, guidance, and multiple exposures. A well-defined learning progression can be useful in several ways. These include (a) providing a big picture view of intended knowledge, (b) serving as a resource for organized curriculum planning, and (c) serving as a reference point for gathering and using evidence for formative or summative assessment purposes. This entry provides basic information on the importance, ...