EDLD 5364 Reflection Week 3

     This week’s readings and videos were very beneficial for me. Universal Design for Learning provided information that will allow me to become a better teacher. As I continued to read about the principles of UDL, the chapter gave numerous examples and practical applications for incorporating activities that involve recognition, strategic learning, and affective learning. I also discovered that many everyday teaching practices tend to hinder rather than promote learning. “Once you have an understanding of the barriers to learning posed by available materials, you can investigate the digital media and networks available to support differentiated teaching approaches” (Rose & Meyer, 2002, para. 2). The UDL site provides a Curriculum Barriers Tool, Template, and Tutorial for identifying the roadblocks in one-size-fits-all teaching methods. I explored the curriculum barrier resources and found them to be customizable. I was able to choose a scenario for a particular student and use the tools to develop a curriculum to maximize the student’s learning. It is very important to consider a student’s needs, interests, and strengths when analyzing barriers in their learning. As I worked through the barrier tools, it became apparent that digital media provides ultimate customization and personalization for diverse learners.

     Two of the most important aspects to consider is how the learner will demonstrate what has been learned and identifying the strategies that help the students acquire and integrate their learning. The best instructional strategies for evidence of learning are providing feedback and recognition. Technology is probably most powerful for incorporating the activities that will provide students with diverse and customizable experiences. The learning becomes personal and adaptive to each student’s learning style and unique interests. As a teacher, I realize that digital tools are an integral part of everyday life in today’s society. We have become consumers and producers. As I was walking through the Los Angeles airport yesterday, I noticed a hub station for charging iPods, iPads, and iPhones. The world has changed, and education must adapt and move forward with it.

References:

Pitler, H. Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Rose, D. & Meyer, A. (2002). Education in the digital age. In Teaching every student in the digital age: universal design for learning (chapter 6). Retrieved from
http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/ideas/tes/chapter6_3.cfm

Jeanette King
EDLD 5364/ET 8038