Assessing for Learning - Reflection

EDUC-6714I-1 Reaching and Engaging All Learners Through Technology

Instructor: Jacqueline Derby






The secret is out! Children learn in many different ways. If teachers want to engage students in THEIR education then teachers need to diversify their instruction to meet the needs of all students. Differentiated instruction does not mean educators have to reinvent what they are already doing, but to reexamine their approach. It is important to take into consideration students interests, readiness and learning styles. Taking a closer look at their students abilities will help teachers to identify different strategies that will maximize learning opportunities.

Luckily for teachers there are many resources to gather information from. Even if a teacher is across the country we are all striving for the same thing ~ Providing a successful learning environment for all students~ . Being able to share ideas regarding Universal Design for learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (DI) strategies and ideas is beneficial. It can give the teacher a different point of view. I believe I have only scratched the surface of learning about UDL and DI. I will continue researching and trying different strategies. The biggest lesson I have learned is to be patient with the process and take it one step at a time.

One key element to Differentiated Instruction is technology and promoting 21st-century skills. Technology can be very empowering and allows teachers to differentiate their instruction effectively. Children have grown up with technology and are very adapt at using it. A couple problems may be availability of the technology and application software that will fit the curriculum. This is where a network of teachers can help troubleshoot ideas. The use of technology does not mean it has to be a lot of bells and whistles. Just a method to keep students engaged and excited about learning. Technology will help motivate and personalize the student’s experience and give them a unique why to express what they know.

One thing I will change in my instructional practice is to allow students more choices in their final project. The use of a tic-tac-toe board or a three-three grid of activities will give students activities that should interest them. This strategy will let students grow and give them ownership of their learning. .

Success for all learners can be a reality! It needs to start by removing the old constraints of educating students. Teachers should provide support where needed but be willing to step back and guide the students. All children want to be successful! When educators provide the tools, motivation and strategies students will soar and become life-long learners.

References:

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008a). Program ten. Knowing your students [Motion picture]. Reaching and engaging all learners through technology. Baltimore: Author.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008a). Program twelve. Universal design for learning [Motion picture]. Reaching and engaging all learners through technology. Baltimore: Author.