On our very first day of class, my heart was racing as I logged on to my computer and the blackboard program. I had introduced myself on Showbie, started my blog, downloaded R&W4G and set up a teacher account on Book Creator. However, I am not inept when it comes to technology, and that is what worried me. Now, having completed this class I am amazed at the number of things that I have learned!
When I take part in any Professional Learning, I always enjoy the hands-on activities and being presented with the opportunity to bring activities back to my classroom. This class definitely did just that! So many resources that I am excited to bring back and implement in my classroom, and share with my students. So many resources that will help include ALL learners in the classroom while strengthing literacy skills.
Todd Rose's Ted Talk video, "The Myth of Average" first introduced us to the idea that if we design our classroom to fit the "average" student, our classrooms are designed for no one! We do not teach to the "average" student, we must teach the "individual" student and thus follow the UDL framework and meet the needs of every student in our classroom and give all students the opportunity to succeed.
Over the course of the 9 weeks, we took part in so many valuable activities that helped me gain a better understanding of Assistive Technology and the UDL framework and furthering the idea that AT is critical in the classroom. Through Tyler's story and meeting him, by working through the simulations on Understand.org, by completing Katie Novak's Dinner Party activity and by being introduced to many other resources such as Read & Write for Google, Book Creator, Mentimeter, Keeble Keyboard, the Asseccibility options on our IPhones or IPads, and Snapverter (just to name a few) I now see how important it is that we presume competency for each and every student and meet all the diverse needs of our students by providing choices that will enable them to learn in the best way possible.
I really like that pic at the end of your post about what fair is and isn't. That's cool. Nice post.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post! I'm quite amazed too about how much learning have taken place in this short time. We have learned about many beneficial resources that will benefit all students that we teach to allow them to reach their full potential....and not just focusing on the "average." I also love the poster you ended your blog with! Hoping to see you in class soon!!
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