Refection for EDUC 6714: Reaching and Engaging All Learners Through Technology
Over the last few weeks I have learned about the Universal Design for learning and how it is used in combination with differentiated instruction. Differentiated instruction is not a group of strategies for the varied levels of students within a classroom. It is a mindset and a way of thinking about how to teach individuals and how they learn best. This helps meet students at their level of learning and we can help engage students by interest.
When I begin this school year, with my first grade class, I will be giving a student survey. This will help me get to know my students interests. Getting to know my students is going to help me decide if I need to teach with visuals, audio, writing, or movement. This multiple intelligences can give a good indication of how students learn. I can also use this information for creating varied assessments. As we complete our back to school section for reading I will be assessing students’ academic strengths. One of the ways I will do this will include the basic Dolch reading word list. Students will also need to demonstrate knowledge of letter sounds. During the first few weeks of school I am getting to know my students and they are getting to know me. I carefully make notes about their learning preferences.
Developing and implementing instruction and assessment that reaches and engages all of my students is a process that will improve over time. Our students vary from year to year with their interests, learning styles, intelligence preferences, and learning profiles. This year, I plan to create an effective learning environment. It will be more student-centered. Opportunities for learning to be student-centered can be improved by the layout of a room. Computer access or a media station can be a wonderful way to engage learners to research and explore more about topics that peak their interests.
For my Promethean Board I will be creating flipcharts and interactive word work. I will be keeping in mind UDL and DI for my students and their individual learning needs. I am excited to help my first grade class learn with the use of technology. Technology will bridge the gap in learning interests, preferences, styles, academic abilities, and multiple intelligences in my first grade class.
Laureate Education, Inc. (2009) Reaching and Engaging All Learners Through Technology. Virtual Field Experience: Managing the Differentiated Classrooms.
