Diverse LearnersLearning Styles Every student has a unique way of learning. It is not only important to recognize this fact, but also to find ways to accommodate diverse learners. The teacher must consider the sources of presentation (ie. white board, written notes, video/PowerPoint on SmartBoard, experiments, etc.), the classroom atmosphere (ie. individual work, collaborative work) and the formats of assignments (ie. worksheets, textbook problems, reflective journals, research tasks, etc.) to ensure that individual learning needs are being met. In order to assist the unique range of learners present in our classrooms, it is valuable to use: 1) Voice and Choice — Voice and choice is an effective way to differentiate instruction as then the students can learn the material and/or do their work in a way that is preferential to their learning style. For example, after teaching a lesson in math, the teacher could have the students express what they have learned in the format of their choice: a paper, a video, a PowerPoint presentation, using concrete objects, a skit, etc. They could also choose if they wanted to work individually or in a small group. Voice and choice not only benefits the student, but also allows the teacher to evaluate which students have similar and different learning styles. 2) Subtle Techniques - Advanced organizer visual: explains the daily activities and concepts. Posters/Mindmaps: allows for a visual review of certain concepts. Embedded videos: helps to enhance the notes. Appropriate and soft music during work time: may help with focus. Individual/Group activities: ensures that students can develop independent learning skills and co-operative social skills. © Use objects: building objects (ie. 3D molecule blocks) may help with understanding © Break time: allows students to get up and move around * Review: allows for a reflection of what has been learned and a discussion that extends the material to a broader scope. eeeeeGardner’s Multiple Intelligences 1) Mathematical Strategies: 2) Verbal Play games of logic. Design assignments that gives students the option of using numbers. Visit science museums or electronic exhibits. Strategies: Read and listen to reading. Visit libraries and allow book exchange. Encourage students to use reflective journals. 3) Musical Strategies: Use podcasts to record sound/video. Do group activities where they learn the material using rhythms and sounds. Integrate music throughout the day. 4) Interpersonal Strategies: ~~ Encourage group work. ~~ Encourage students to join clubs. ~ Use role-play and discussion activities. 5) Intrapersonal Strategies: - Listen to students’ feelings and give sensitive feedback. ~ Encourage students to use journals/blogs. 6) Naturalist Strategies: - Encourage participation in environmental groups. = Plan outdoor activities. = Connect nature & science.7) Spatial 9) Spiritual Strategies: Strategies: - Use a variety of materials and objects - Allow individuals to when explaining concepts. express their values and ~ Use charts and mind-maps. beliefs in assignments and - Allow students to construct objects. projects. 8) Bodily-Kinesthetic 10) Existential Strategies: Strategies: - Take breaks from course work, allowing ~ Allow students to research students to move around, and present world issues. - Do “walk n’ talk” exercise, where students ~ Encourage students to walk around and discuss their ideas. explore different world - Choose assignments that require students to actively move around the classroom.