The importance of the characteristics of learners in the planning process

In designing instruction, there is the need to consider the learners for whom a program is being developed. The concept of individual differences matters so much. There is the need to understand these differences and characteristics, and how they provide opportunities or constraints on our designs. These should be taken note of early in the planning process.

Designers should also know that learner motivation is also an important determinant in the planning process. Learners who are highly motivated are likely to respond positively to the instruction than those who are not. The latter need strategies that will build their confidence in the course of the lesson. It is therefore necessary to begin with the easy content and gradually increase to the more difficult. (Simple to complex by Pestalozzi)