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Reaching and Engaging All Learners through Technology-Week 8 Reflection


I have enjoyed this class. I appreciate the practicality of the classes at Walden. I can use the material in my classes right away, if I choose. In this class, I was part of a NING, which allowed collaboration and sharing of resources. I appreciated my classmates input, and will continue to use those resources.

I learned more of the teacher's responsibility in the classroom. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (DI) are more than just "buzz words." In this class, I learned that they are a way of thinking about the material that I present, and how the students learn that material, and even how the students demonstrate their learning of the material I have presented.

UDL allows all students access to the curriculum, standards, and objectives through a variety of materials and methods. DI challenges the teacher to learn her students and present the material in a way that he/she finds interesting and learns best. UDL and DI are not difficult to implement. They require a bit more planning, but most teachers are willing to put in some extra effort if the students will benefit. UDL/DI provides opportunities for all students to learn by giving students choices. Teachers can give choices in presentation and demonstration of students' learning.

Technology enhances UDL/DI. Teachers can tailor technology for struggling students such as assistive technology, and remedial technologies. Students can use technology to display their learning. Technology not only enhanced UDL/DI, but also it allows students to recreate their knowledge.

I am looking forward to the next class, and I hope I gain as much practical information as I have in this one.


 

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