Sunday, April 11, 2010

Response to Prompt 3 (Shor)

In order to assess the learning ability of diverse learners and accommodate the sociocultural differences that affect learning, it is essential to incorporate assessment practices that are also diverse. In any classroom, the skill levels and ability to learn are affected by many factors such as economic status, race and linguistics. In order to provide an equal education for the students in any given classroom, it is important to first assess the ability of the students in order to give each student the proper amount attention required. All students learn at a different speed and require more instruction than do other students.


There are many techniques that can be used in the classroom that can be used in order to get the students involved in the lesson in order to assess the progress of the students. By using a variety of audio and visual props, group and individual exercises, as well as ensuring an equal participatory atmosphere in the class, are sure methods to grab the students attention in order to get them involved in the classroom. Shor states that in order to provide a quality education for children we must get them to feel as though they need to participate. By ensuring that all voices in the classroom are heard in a participatory atmosphere, the task of properly assessing the progress of each student becomes an easier task compared to the tactics of past education in which students were expected to memorize and regurgitate information by taking test after test.

Ms. Roberts is the teacher in the classroom in which I am tutoring this semester. In order to assess her students, she uses many different methods of evaluation. Shor says that a classroom needs to maintain a balance between, "The need for structure and the need for openness." Structure is maintained in the classroom by varying the day-to-day lesson plan to keep the interest of the students and also by ensuring that all the students are paying attention to the task at hand. From my experience so far, trying to make sure that all of the students are on the same page is one of the more challenging aspects of being a second grade teacher. Another method that is mentioned by Shor that is played out in the classroom of Ms. Roberts is making sure that the subject matter is oriented around the students culture and needs. Some lessons are given to the class as they participate as group while sitting on a rug in the front of the classroom, while other are given while the students sit at tables in groups. At each table there are four to five students of varying academic capabilities. By grouping students who achieve at a slower pace with those who are faster learners, the group can work together in order to pass knowledge and information in an attempt to help the needs of slower learners.


These techniques maintain an open flow of ideas by ensuring an equal participatory, democratic classroom, providing structure and forming subject matter around the needs of the students are all methods used by Ms. Roberts in which Shor would describe as empowering students. By making sure students are voicing their ideas, caring about their education and providing a diverse learning experience, it is easier to access a students progress throughout year.

2 comments:

  1. Mike is correct when he says that a diverse classroom needs diverse teaching and assesment methodologies. Goldenberg says that when teaching english language learners (ELL's), teachers must take into account student's language limitations. This is true for assesments as well. You have to determine where each student is at in order to know where to begin. Not all students are in the same place or as Mike put it, "on the same page". Assessment accomplishes this.

    Although I agree with Shor when it comes to participatory education, sometimes it has its limitations. Depending on the maturity level of the students, a group project or even working independantly, can be an opportunity to goof off.

    I know in our class the teacher used visual props (boxes) to demonstrate angles, corners, and sides. The 3D made it easier to see hidden parts than a 2D written on the board or a handout. All voices being heard (Carlson) is important, particularly in a democratic society/school. It creates fairness as well as a sense of ownership for the students.

    This concept should also be applied to assessments as well. rather than just written tests all the time, a variety of evaluatory methods should be used. For example, in the FNED 346 we have a variety of non tradition evaluation methods, including class presentation including powerpoint, written assignments, class participation and preparation, and group projects. In contrast my RIC math classes are almost entirely tradional paper and pencil written examinations. variety is the spice of life and created a more interesting and enjoyable learning environment. This in turn, facilitates learning. There is a balnce between structure and openness.

    The final thing that will grab and keep students' attention is that both the presentation of the material and the assessment techniques used must be relevant. Nothing catches someone's attention like something they can relate to. New concepts should be introduced and explained in terms of concepts that are already understood. Using relevant examples and illustrations that the students can relate to will help maintain their interest and make connections to their everyday lives. Teachers need to show the practical applications of the class material. This is the So What? question.

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  2. Hi Mike,

    You reference Shor's emphasis on "making sure that the subject matter is oriented around the students culture and needs." You go on to describe how the teacher organizes her classroom to meet various levels of academic need. Have you seen evidence that the teacher responds to the cultural interests of students? This is crucial.

    You bring the discussion back to this point by stressing the importance of relevant assignments. You're so right--this is the So What? of learning.

    Keep me posted,
    Dr. August

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