ABSTRACT
T he first two chapters established the processes and principles of learning-centered course design. These included the first two overarching principles related to the focus on student learning and the iterative nature of course design. Now, it is time to begin building your pathway for student learning by examining the starting point—your students and the characteristics they bring with them to the course (see Figure 3.1). What are your students like? What previous experiences do they have? How will those experiences affect their learning in your course? By answering these sorts of questions, you will take an important first step toward designing an effective pathway for student success, one that gives all students the opportunity to succeed and reach their destination.
