INTASC Principle #3
INTASC Principle #3
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Principle #3: The teacher understands how students differ in their approaches to learning and creates instructional opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.
Artifact #1: Computer Procedures (short powerpoint)
Description: In the media center, we have 50 computers available to the students. All of the computers are iMacs, but there are two different operating systems being used. There are also two ways to access and save files. Many of our students do not generally work with Apple computers, and many students do not use our computers often. This is also true of our staff. In order to facilitate the use of these computers successfully by all users, I created sets of computer procedures on laminated sheets that are located in each computer station for easy access. The instructions are presented in both visual pictures and step by step.
Artifact #2: Curriculum Chart
Description: The curriculum chart provides a variety of lessons that will stimulate the learner in a variety of ways. The lessons incorporate research and life long learning skills with curriculum standards for middle school students. The lesson ideas presented acknowledge the variety of learning styles recognized by the Multiple Intelligences theory as well as providing authentic activities for all learners.
Connection to the Standard: The Computer Procedures and the Curriculum Chart both show that I understand the different approaches to learning and that I can create and present appropriate instructional materials to support the diverse learning community.
Reflection:
Students
By making computer procedures available to the students and staff at all times, the students and staff are able to independently and successfully use the computers. By providing these procedures in two different formats, the students and staff can choose the procedure that is easier to understand and therefore increases the success rate. I am hoping that the students will become more comfortable using the computers. I am also hoping that by using the procedures independently, an self confidence will increase.
Teaching
By making the computer procedures available to all, when I am previously occupied, the students can self motivate and self teach. At the same time, when I am assisting a student using a computer, we can work together by referring to the sheet. I will not need to always show the student how to use the computers. I can show them the steps once and then ask them to repeat the procedure while using the visual instructions. At the same time, the students will become more comfortable showing other students how to use the computers which then increases the scaffolding value.
Next Step
I would like to also make available other written and visual instructions for computer use. These procedures would include how to conduct book searches and how to access the internet. After providing the first set of computer procedures, I have seen an increase of independence and self confidence in both the teachers and students using the computers. I have both formats used by different people. It has been interesting to see who prefers which format. I would like to improve the appearance of the procedures but I am finding that it is hard to make the procedures any more concise. The visuals, for me, are hard to follow, but the feedback from those who do follow visuals has been positive.
© 2003 McDaniel College and Stephanie Greene
McDaniel College