I think one important key to self-directed learners is the formative assessment. So often students work on a unit for days/weeks and then have a summative test. When teachers create a student-centered classroom environment, research supports that students have substantial learning gains. Formative assessments require students to think about the quality of their work as well as the processes they use in achieving their learning goals. It allows them to evaluate their learning strategies to become more effective learners. Technology makes differentiation of student learning a little easier for teachers to manage. Software options and adaptive equipment can assist students with special needs and nonnative language speakers. Again by using formative assessments, teachers can determine the level of learning of these students and modify accommodations to enhance their learning experience. Teachers will need to devote time in developing appropriate scaffolding to allow for various learning styles.
I have always been really big on differentiation. At Averett and as a new teacher last year, there were so many classes or workshops that we were required to attend related to differentiation and different techniques to use in the classroom. I now know several more ways to differentiate and have a class lean more towards self-directed learners.
I think one important key to self-directed learners is the formative assessment. So often students work on a unit for days/weeks and then have a summative test. When teachers create a student-centered classroom environment, research supports that students have substantial learning gains. Formative assessments require students to think about the quality of their work as well as the processes they use in achieving their learning goals. It allows them to evaluate their learning strategies to become more effective learners. Technology makes differentiation of student learning a little easier for teachers to manage. Software options and adaptive equipment can assist students with special needs and nonnative language speakers. Again by using formative assessments, teachers can determine the level of learning of these students and modify accommodations to enhance their learning experience. Teachers will need to devote time in developing appropriate scaffolding to allow for various learning styles.
ReplyDeleteI have always been really big on differentiation. At Averett and as a new teacher last year, there were so many classes or workshops that we were required to attend related to differentiation and different techniques to use in the classroom. I now know several more ways to differentiate and have a class lean more towards self-directed learners.
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