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Blog # 5

Tasks Before Apps- Chapter 3
This chapter mentioned Seasaw which was also a topic spoken about in class.  Seasaw was something that I was not familiar with and was surprised to read how it is used in this text under the subtitle Differentiation and Student Curiosity.  This section speaks about the importance of providing students with the tools necessary to complete a task via media.  This form of technology allows educators to differentiate work for all levels of students.  Providing students with what the book says "just right" materials is the perfect and easiest form of technology which makes it easy for teachers to differentiate.  One great example that the book gives is how a kindergarten class was given an assignment to create an All About Me project.  With the use of technology, they were given a variety of options.   Some students can create a slideshow of photos describing themselves, others may want to write via text or caption their photos with a speech bubble, and those who have difficulty can record their voice to tell the story they are trying to create about their lives.  What a great idea and tool that offers so many options the varying level students.This is something that I would love to use as a lesson in the future.


TLNT- Chapter 2
This chapter titled Transforming Learning with Unique, Powerful Technology provides ways that visual learning is possible by incorporating technology into lesson planning.  The subtitle that I focused on was Groupwork and Collaboration in the Classroom.  Working in groups helps students to develop communication, teamwork skills and offer opportunities to learn from one another.  This teacher used computers which she referred to as a "grown-up"during her literacy lesson.  Meaning, the computer provided tasks to be completed that kept groups busy and somewhat supervised, which offered her more time to walk around the room and help others.  The small groups of students gather around the computer which directs and guides them to tasks assigned.  This type of instruction allows students to have control, pride and be responsible for their work.  Working together allows students to bring out their strengths and get help from their peers on the weaknesses.  All of this helps students to acquire skills, share knowledge and make learning stick. 


Comments

  1. I enjoyed reading your post! I also agree that it is important to include differentiation in our lessons to address all students, UDL. I like that you mentioned the example about the All about me project. Allowing students from Kindergarten to use technology as an additional resource and work in groups to demonstrate themselves improves their motivation to learn and show their strengths.

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