Week 8: Reflection (EDUC-6714)

As this course draws to a close, I can say confidently that I have learned things I can use in the classroom. The knowledge that I have gained will lead me to make the adjustments needed in my teaching practice, especially when it comes to Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (DI). Individualizing instruction sounds harder than it really is. Incorporating technology is an important strategy in order to better serve students and meet their diverse learning needs.

Our Differentiation Station social network group has provided various resources that I can use in classroom. The resources we have gathered will become useful tools to have in hand in designing differentiated instruction that will meet the needs of all learners with their different learning styles. The Differentiation Station has allowed us to come together and share relevant, useful resources in an effort to improve our effectiveness as educators.

This course has also helped me to realize the importance of being aware of the different learning styles that may be present in the classroom. “People learn differently and given the chance to express learning in various ways could increase the success of students in the classroom” (Tomlinson, 2009).

One immediate adjustment I will make to my instructional practice to customize instruction and assessment as a result of my learning from this course will be offering more choices for students regarding the format they select to demonstrate learning. As far as assessment, I will offer the option of using technology to write essays, digital storytelling, Voicethreads, Concept Maps, and other multimedia presentation.

Tomlinson, C. (2009). Learning profiles and achievement. School Administrator. 66(2), 28–33.