Month: October 2022

How will your interactive learning resource specifically ensure that the needs of all learners can be met?

In order to ensure my learning resource meets the needs of all learners, I will apply the principles of the Universal Design Framework (CAST, 2018). The framework includes three pillars: “multiple means of representation, multiple means of action or expression, and multiple means of engagement” (CAST, 2018).

To meet the first pillar, multiple means of representation, I will ensure that the lesson material can be delivered in various formats such as video, on-screen text, braille, or a combination of these such as video with subtitles. Furthermore, the format will be able to be customizable to the needs of the student; for example, the speed of the video can be altered (slower or faster), and subtitles and braille are available in multiple languages.

Secondly, to meet the second pillar, multiple means of action or expression, I will provide multiple means for students to express their thoughts and ideas. Some options will include connecting the themes of the lesson to a personal experience (ie story-telling through speech or text), creating a musical parody where the new lyrics will be an example from the lesson, or playing a game of charades that uses new vocabulary from the lesson.

Lastly, to meet the third pillar, multiple means of engagement, I will ensure that students have options to engage with the lesson material through individual learning, group learning, critical thinking, creative thinking, and through physical engagement. Examples of activities include filling out an online crossword game that uses new vocabulary from the lesson, classroom bingo, Kahoot, and small groups for discussions.

How can you adjust your planned learning activities to meet the need of your learners if an unexpected event occurs? (for example, if a pandemic arises and many of your employees must now work from home – how will you ensure that they can still do their jobs? What training will they need, and how will you deliver it, knowing they must remain at home?)

If an unexpected event were to occur (another pandemic or other event), I would inform my students of what is happening and switch the class to a fully online format. The lesson will be delivered in a self-paced method so that students are not pressured into attending class on time while trying to figure out how to navigate their new lifestyle. Training on how to use the online platform will be provided as soon as the announcement of the shift to online is announced. Training will include youtube links, links to the new learning platform (how-tos, FAQ, and community chat), and help desk support links. In addition, learning activities will shift to more visual activities rather than worksheets or assigned homework pages.

References

CAST (2018). Universal Design for Learning Guidelines version 2.2. Retrieved from http://udlguidelines.cast.org 

What is Cooperative Learning?

Cooperative learning is a learning strategy that is centered around students but is facilitated by the instructor (Li & Lam, 2013). Every student is responsible for their individual learning, but also the learning of their peers (Li & Lam, 2013). The group of students collaborates to “solve a problem, complete a task, or achieve a goal” (Li & Lam, 2013). It is not the same as having a group of students simply talking to each other or having a discussion. They must have a common goal to strive together as a team.

Elements of Cooperative Learning

Cooperative learning can be achieved when certain conditions are met. Below are those conditions:

1. Clearly perceived positive interdependence
2. Considerable promotive interaction
3. Clearly perceived individual accountability and personal responsibility to achieve the group’s goals
4. Frequent use of the relevant interpersonal and small-group skills
5. Frequent and regular group processing of current functioning to improve the group’s future effectiveness

(Roger & Johnson, 1994)

Cooperative Learning Example in School

How does cooperative learning align with a growth mindset?

Having a growth mindset means not being afraid to try new learning strategies. Collaborating with fellow students can allow students to experiment with new strategies with each other. Students who have similar concerns about their learning can lean on each other, grow their learning, and thus reach their goals.

References

Li, M. P., & Lam, B. H. (2013). Cooperative learning. The Hong Kong Institute of Education, 1, 33.

Roger, T., & Johnson, D. W. (1994). An overview of cooperative learning. Creativity and collaborative learning, 1-21.