This module has helped me think about self-directed learners and the role of differentiation in the following ways...
As a special education teacher, I am used to providing differentiation in my teaching style and assignments. Understanding that students learn differently is critical to ensuring that they benefit from my instruction. Prior to this course, I did not seek out opportunities for self-directed and project based learning within the classes that I taught this year. It seemed to me that any type of project that required self-direction resulted in both my students and myself becoming frustrated and unproductive. As a result, I tended to rely on direct instruction because it seemed to work best with such a variety of ability levels. Now I understand that self-directed learning isn't unobtainable for my students, but I must provide clear procedures, checklists, feedback, and rubrics along the way. By providing this additional support my students will benefit by learning critical thinking skills. In addition, as they become more comfortable with the process they will be able to help each other along the way and become less reliant on me. I am excited to take another shot at using self-directed learning with my students next year!
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2 comments:
So true - the success of differentiation and self directed learning is actually how much "direction" we give along the way. Depending on the student more guidance and checkpoints may be needed along the way to promote success.
It is difficult to think that students can be self directed but I agree that if you keep a bit of structure like the rubrics and checklists that is helpful in keeping kids on task. It is exciting but very scary at the same time since you are not sure how the students will respond to it. Good luck, I know that you will do just fine.
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