Outline of Universal Design for Learning

This outline was easily made using Inspiration and includes a link to CAST's "Wiggleworks", which is a leveled reading program that incorporates the multimedia approach to learning that is accessible to all. It is the first UDL program created, and offers teachers a new opportunity to serve the needs of diverse learning styles and backgrounds of elementary students.

manipulating digital photos

This was done with weather effects found on photoshop.com, along with shadow effects and some changes in light.

Standards

I chose National Educational Technology Standards (NETS) for teachers standard #II:

II.Planning and designing Learning Environments and Experiences
A. design developmentally appropriate learning opportunities that apply technology-enhanced instructional strategies to support the diverse needs of learners.
B. apply current research on teaching and learning with technology when planning learning environments and experiences.
C. identify and locate technology resources and evaluate them for accuracy and suitability.
D. plan for the management of technology resources within the context of learning activities.
E. plan strategies to manage student learning in a technology-enhanced environment.

Today's Learners response

If kids in middle school are learning to play games, use cell phones and i-pods, going online to IM and chat, but are restricted from doing this in school, there seems to be a gap between their real lives and their school lives. Do they need to have such a separation? Do they need to learn the basics of the three R's to be able to become literate? These are new questions for our technology-based world. Does good handwriting equal high intelligence? Do different learning styles get equitable opportunities to succeed in school? There is fear about inappropriate use of the internet that causes administrators and teachers to block sites. We are caught in a place that seeks to protect children, yet limits their potential at the same time. Do we need these controls? Knowing our students and finding out about their use of technology and meeting them where they are, to teach them on their level is vital to make learning relevant to their lives.

Response to "E-Tips"

In reading this article, I was struck by the layers of important considerations involved in deciding to implement technology in a classroom. My position in the Torrington School District requires me to move from school to school as an itinerant ESL Teacher. There are some situations that may have potential though none are easily accessible.

I have had experience in a previous position at a Community College which has ideal implementation of technology in the classroom teaching adults. All of the e-tips given were in place there, including collaboration between teachers and administrators and technical support.

As I compare the availablity of computers, the support of administration and feasibility of using computers and technology, there is a great disparity due mainly to budgetary constraints. This makes my present position precarious in terms of using technology to its fullest potential, though I plan to try to infuse as much as possible, because I have seen what it can do.

Teddy Bears Go Blogging Response

I remember sending home a stuffed animal with pre-school students and the very real involvement of the students when each child returned to school to share at circle time about what the bear did over the weekend. This idea of blogging about the experiences allows for so much more input by parents and siblings of the students, who are empowered by being the catalysts for all of this writing. What a wonderful way to "put learning in the hands of the students". I love the fact that a great deal of reflection can take place; it is not rushed and can be done at home or anywhere. Learning about another place like Australia expands the lesson enormously, in an unforgettable activity. For teachers, this is wonderful because it is easy and requires very little intervention. Another thought I had was that students can publish without the problem e-mail sometimes presents with lack of response. Whether people respond or not, the blog has integrity as a piece of written work.

First class - January 12, 2009

We have a full house (every computer taken) - and it's great so far using Apple computers. I am learning together with Helene, Shelley and Fabiola, familiar faces from other GSEAP classes. Our professor and the grad assistant are very helpful. This is going to be fun and challenging. We are all going to be able to teach our kids this stuff! Did a tableaux of Lord of the Flies using digital cameras. Will definitely try it ASAP at the Middle School.