Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to participate in a course that has truly changed the way I teach. I have learned that every student in my classroom has the ability to learn but it is up to me to make it possible. Through the use of the resources I have gained from the Differentiated Station network, I have already made adjustments to how I plan and execute my instruction. I started customizing my lessons based on individual needs and will soon have to submit lesson plans using a differentiated lesson plan format. I believe that this course and the resources I have been exposed to have truly prepared me for the changes that are being made within my school. I am also confident that these changes will ensure that each student is receiving an education that best reflects 21st century learning.
Creating a classroom environment that revolves around the principles of Universal Design for learning and Differentiated Instruction is not easy and takes a lot of time. However, technology definitely makes it easier to implement meaningful instruction that fits the needs of every individual. I was fortunate enough to be told that computers will be installed in my classroom over the next week. Although my students cannot use the Internet, they will be able to read PDF files, create Word documents, access the music and podcast programs, and use some of the built in applications like the dictionary and speech features. I am excited because the addition of the computers will provide me with supplementary resources that cater to various learning styles. In addition, the tools will foster creativity and expand their knowledge of 21st century technology.
