The second week started off extremely hectic. I missed the first 20 minutes of the web conference due to running late home and having to cook dinner. Once I joined the topics had turned to what was expected for week 2. Dr. Cummings addressed the readings and the rather outdated articles that we have to read. In this discussion, she stated that her view of technology in the classroom had not changed significantly over the past few years. Her point here seems valid as the implementation of new technology in a district is extremely slow. While faster computers and tablets exist out in the real world they are not as easily found in the traditional classroom.
The transition from teacher led to student directed classroom was the next topic after this. Dr. Cummings brought up the importance of leading by example and creating a classroom that shifts responsibility to the learner and way from the teacher. THe point was brought up that this is difficult when the teacher comes from a system that has institutionalized a teacher led learning environment. The project is a way for us to channel this thinking into practice. We are forced to look at this new lesson, but also look at our current lessons and evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies that we are implementing. A deliberate set up to the entire lesson cycle is important and is often lost in the content focused curriculum.
It is important to realize that the UDL lessons and strategies that are outlined in the readings this week focus on pieces are are a common framework of other programs like AVID. These systems involve writing and reflection, and it is a piece htat is really important here. The project, and especially this week has got me thinking about what I can do better in my lesson plans and what I CAN DO THAT CAN BE MORE MEANINGFUL?
The transition from teacher led to student directed classroom was the next topic after this. Dr. Cummings brought up the importance of leading by example and creating a classroom that shifts responsibility to the learner and way from the teacher. THe point was brought up that this is difficult when the teacher comes from a system that has institutionalized a teacher led learning environment. The project is a way for us to channel this thinking into practice. We are forced to look at this new lesson, but also look at our current lessons and evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies that we are implementing. A deliberate set up to the entire lesson cycle is important and is often lost in the content focused curriculum.
It is important to realize that the UDL lessons and strategies that are outlined in the readings this week focus on pieces are are a common framework of other programs like AVID. These systems involve writing and reflection, and it is a piece htat is really important here. The project, and especially this week has got me thinking about what I can do better in my lesson plans and what I CAN DO THAT CAN BE MORE MEANINGFUL?