What is the step that bridges the gap between planning and implementation of educational programs?

The step that bridges the gap between planning and implementation of educational programs is design. This phase involves taking the concepts and strategies established during the planning phase and translating them into a concrete framework. This includes developing the educational content, materials, and teaching methods that will be utilized to convey the information effectively to the target audience.

In the design phase, educators focus on how the educational objectives will be met through practical applications, which sets the stage for successful implementation. This might involve creating lesson plans, developing visual aids, and considering the learning environment, which are all essential for fostering an engaging and informative experience for participants.

Other options like evaluation focus on assessing the effectiveness of the program after it has already been implemented, rather than facilitating the transition into execution. Selection usually pertains to choosing specific materials or methods but is not as encompassing as design in laying out the full program structure. Identification might refer to determining the target audience or needs, but it does not directly contribute to the creation of the program itself. Thus, design is the critical step that connects planning with actionable execution in the realm of educational programming.