OBJECTIVE 5

Knowledge of Learners and Learning

ARTIFACT: Computer Procedures (PowerPoint)

REFLECTION:

Using technology can be difficult and not every one learns how to do use them in the same manner. Diverse learning styles necessitate diverse instructions.

Every day Christy asked me to help save her documents on the computer. Christy (named changed for privacy), is an 8th grade student in self contained classes for Reading and English. Every day Mrs. Peacock (name changed for privacy) asked me to help her pull-out class save their documents on the computer. Every day, students would come in to the media center at lunch and try to work on a saved document but not know how to retrieve it. This was becoming a problem.

How could I help these very different students remember the process? Each of these members of the learning community - the exceptional students, the teachers and the on-level students - has diverse learning styles that need to be addressed. In order for them to really learn the process, I needed to create a procedure that would accomodate visual learners and linear learners, not just auditory learners. The procedure cards that I created did just that. I created laminated sheets that displayed the procedures both in a linear fashion and with clear visuals. I tested these procedures on parent volunteers, other staff members and different students with different learning styles. It was amazing to see how each person responded differently to the procedures.

Now, every day Christy stops by the desk to pick up her instruction sheet. She may not remember form day to day how to do it, but she can do it herself now that she has pictures. Now, Mrs. Peacock shows her students how to save documents. Now, those students at lunch are able to retrieve their documents. Now, I might be able to take two bites of my sandwhich before the next question!

 

 

© 2004 McDaniel College and Stephanie Greene
McDaniel College