EDUC 6714 Reflection

Every child in my classroom is completely unique in their needs, interests, and learning preferences, and at the completion of this course, EDUC 6714, it is more evident than ever how important differentiated instruction is in my classroom. Dr. Smith and Dr. Throne (2009) tell us that differentiation is not simply a set of strategies, but more a way of thinking about teaching and learning (Laureate). And while I find this statement to be true, to differentiate effectively, teachers must have a set of strategies to use to help many kinds of students. Throughout the duration of this class, my colleagues and I have worked hard to discover, investigate, and share many online strategies and tools to help with differentiation in the classroom. These tools, located in our Differentiation Station social network, include a wide variety of websites containing information on DI and UDL, as well as interactive websites and sites containing printable materials. One thing that has become very obvious is that no one person could have discovered these tools on their own. Because we all have different learning styles, needs, and interests, including the different areas in which we teach, the wide variety of materials will allow for easy differentiation in the classroom. The tools are, in fact, differentiated themselves! With the help of each member of my Differentiation Station group, we were able to develop a truly useful classroom resource.

One thing that I have struggled with throughout the duration of my Master’s program is how difficult it can be to integrate technology into my kindergarten classroom. When I feel as though it is impossible, I have to stop and remember the words of Dr. Smith, “It’s possible to use technology, we just have to make the effort” (Laureate, 2009). One way that I have been able to make the effort is to implement the principles of UDL in my classroom. By providing multiple means of representation, means of expression, and means of engagement, I can meet the needs of my students based on readiness, interest, and learning style. Some tools I have already begun implementing in my classroom instruction to accomplish these things are the online tools located at www.starfall.com, www.spellingcity.com, and www.uptoten.com. In addition, I also use KidPix often, and I am in the process of implementing www.readingeggs.com into my reading instruction.

Dr. Smith and Dr. Throne tell us that every child is worth the best we can give them (Laureate, 2009). As I continue using the resources collected by my colleagues on our Differentiation Station as well as searching for new, exciting resources, I can find the most effective and efficient ways to reach my students and meet the diverse needs of each child.

References
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Reaching and engaging all learners through technology [Motion Picture]. Reaching and engaging all learners through technology. Baltimore: Author.