Cascading knowledge maps

Grader A: partial

Knowledge-space/knowledge-graph engines (ALEKS, Khan Academy's former knowledge map) run behind widely used products, but a student-facing cascading knowledge map is not a measured classroom tool; Khan dropped its visible map. Real but niche student-facing use.

Test: at least 5% of schools/students used navigable knowledge maps by 2021

• ALEKS (accessed 2026-10-01): ALEKS models student knowledge with knowledge space theory (a map of topics), shown to students as a progress pie rather than a navigable map

Grader B: partial

Knowledge-space and prerequisite-map systems are in real use (ALEKS knowledge spaces, Khan Academy's knowledge map from 2012), but the visual, student-navigated cascading map was not shown to reach 5% of schools; Khan retired its map view. No public share measure; real but limited use.

Test: At least 5% of students/schools used such maps as a routine learning interface by 2021.

• ALEKS (n.d.): Uses knowledge-space theory to map which topics a student knows; acquired by McGraw-Hill 2013