Which of the following is a challenge in the design of continuing education programs?

Overestimating participant readiness is a significant challenge in the design of continuing education programs because it can lead to a mismatch between the actual skills and knowledge of the participants and the program's expectations. When designers assume that all participants have a certain level of readiness, they may not adequately address gaps in knowledge or skills, which can result in frustration and disengagement. This challenge emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough needs assessments prior to program development to ensure that the content is tailored to meet the actual needs and readiness levels of participants, facilitating effective learning experiences.

The other points, while relevant to educational program design, do not directly relate to the readiness of participants. For instance, marketing is crucial for promoting programs, but it does not affect the immediate learning experience of the participants. Similarly, an over-emphasis on hands-on training may not suit every subject or learner's style, and focusing solely on maximizing class sizes for efficiency might deteriorate the quality of interaction and individualized attention for each participant. In contrast, ensuring participants are realistically prepared for the coursework they are about to undertake is foundational to the success of any continuing education initiative.