InTASC Standard 2: Learning Differences

 

The standard states that "the candidate uses understanding of individual differences, diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments that enable each learner to meet high standards."

I sprinkled my presentation with personal stories, wanting to highlight the idea that we need to work at connecting with our students and building relationships. When we do this, we can better differentiate for them.

In regards to differentiation, I am a proponent for universal design. What I love about universal design is the idea that the supports designed for certain kids are made available to all kids regardless of ability because all students have areas of improvement to work on. “Universal design for learning is integrated into regular instructional planning as a mechanism to make diversity the norm”. And this works to the advantage of special needs students, as emphasized by Shelley Moore, in her book One Without the Other. Stories of Unity Through Diversity and Inclusion, when she states that supports work best when kids don’t know they’re designed for them because everyone has access to them.

For example, my student and I collaborated to make a colourful cat-filled schedule to attach to the front of his laptop to remind him of class times and ultimately decrease his lateness to classes. But, when it came time to attach it, he hesitated, “I don’t want to feel special, other kids will see.” So, I made copies (after I removed the cat images because many students in the class are “dog people”) and offered them to the other kids, there were after all other stragglers in the class. Of those you took a copy, some kept the copy in their planner, some attached it to their laptop. This made my student okay with the schedule, even if his schedule was the only one with cats on it.

We all need supports to get through our day, some days more than others and it is no different for kids. For example, when I work out with Jillian Michaels’ 30 Day Shred, sometimes, especially when I am feeling tired, I need to follow her modified instructions while still experiencing the same benefits of the workout. And, she is always encouraging, telling me that when I am ready, I can go deeper into the exercises. This gives me confidence that I will build up my strength and stamina when I am ready.

I asked my cohort, What are your non-negotiables for successful differentiation? And why? Here are their answers, take a peek if you like.

And, click here for my presentation!