Reaching and Engaging All Learners through Technology

This class has introduced me to some very important concepts including Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and made me revisit some ideas that I have put on the back burner like Differentiated Instruction (DI). I have learned the value of technology integration to allow for flexibility and individualized learning for my students. Throne and Smith (2009) advocate that technology can be a great differentiator for us (Laureate Education). My colleagues have introduced me to many new resources "Differentiating4Success-Reaching and Engaging All Learners through Technology" These resources opened many avenues for exploring the concepts of UDL and DI and will be a great source of support for me as I try to implement these principles and strategies in my classroom. The resources also offer new ways to integrate technology into my classroom. I need to look at these resources more in depth and determine which would be most effective for my students.

My favorite assignment for this course was using Skype to communicate with my colleagues. It was fascinating to me to have the chance to chat,speak and collaborate with people around the world for a common goal. I also loved doing the Voice thread. This was a super example of how to collaborate, and use creativity and alternative modes of expression. I find that this inspires me to use the technology with my students because I have developed a confidence with it and see the possibilities for integration. I also find that the planning it takes to incorporate the knowledge I want to share and the technology I am using to share it strengthens my understanding of the topic. The ning was a great collaborative tool and it was a great opportunity to find resources to implement UDL, DI and technology integration.
Although I certainly am using more technology than I did last year, I am hoping to continue to ramp up my use. I am using the Smartboard and the clickers very regularly, I have also learned to embed videos from United Streaming into my website for students to use at home and use videos and online quizzes in my classroom. I have also gotten my students to blog on my school website. I hope to incorporate more assessment and enrichment oppotunities.
I hope to encourage more independence in my students. Some still need more practice in reading text online for information. I hope to continue to help move these students into more independent learning.
References:

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). What Is Differentiated Instruction? [Motion picture]. Reaching and engaging all learners through technology. Baltimore: Tomlinson, C. A., Smith, G., & Throne, S.

Differentiated Instruction and UDL Synthesis

UDL