- There is no one "right" or best way to teach
- Teach the child, not the label
- Teach children with special needs the way we would teach any other student
Regarding the first point, it is so easy to get caught up in the "next big literacy program" or even get trapped in the mindset of needing a "one size fits all" curriculum because it seems "easier." If it makes teaching seem "easier," we are very likely not meeting the needs of our students. It's a good reminder that we need to look at the needs of each child and do what works best to enrich and support their learning. Our school district is wonderful with this: supporting us as literacy teachers and not expecting us to use an umbrella curriculum. They trust us as teachers to do what is best for our students, who are very diverse from one classroom to the next.
One thing Routman also urges us to do is to question research. While we as educators like to rely on research, whether in our classrooms or for our own professional development, she makes a good point. How do we know which research to listen to, and which to ignore? Routman maintains, "true scientists rarely reach a 'forever' conclusion." An example of this was the implementation of Mimio/Headsprout two years ago. We were told it was "research based," but I had trouble knowing what the kids were learning because I had no immediate hand in it. I was unable to connect the "lingo" from that program to the rest of our literacy curriculum so there was a disconnect for my students.. And then, per teacher requests, it was gone within two years.
I think at FES we do a good job of teaching the child rather than the label. While we know the child may have academic difficulties or unique learning needs, we still look at those children as children--those who deserve as much of an education as their peers. As Routman says, "You find out what their interests are. You make sure they experience immediate success."
One thing Routman also urges us to do is to question research. While we as educators like to rely on research, whether in our classrooms or for our own professional development, she makes a good point. How do we know which research to listen to, and which to ignore? Routman maintains, "true scientists rarely reach a 'forever' conclusion." An example of this was the implementation of Mimio/Headsprout two years ago. We were told it was "research based," but I had trouble knowing what the kids were learning because I had no immediate hand in it. I was unable to connect the "lingo" from that program to the rest of our literacy curriculum so there was a disconnect for my students.. And then, per teacher requests, it was gone within two years.
I think at FES we do a good job of teaching the child rather than the label. While we know the child may have academic difficulties or unique learning needs, we still look at those children as children--those who deserve as much of an education as their peers. As Routman says, "You find out what their interests are. You make sure they experience immediate success."
You are so right. Here at Fairforest, the lack of mandated curriculum gives teachers the freedom to learn what their students need and meet those needs how they see fit.I shared your feelings with Mimio. It didn't work for my older learners and I was not sad to see it go. It's evident that you put your words into practice. You work hard to meet the needs of your students and don't rely on that one size fits all approach.
ReplyDeleteHi Christina,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you and Heather that the freedom that our teachers have allows us to learn from our students and to decide what our students' needs are. I believe that there is no "magic bullet" or "one size wonder" rather what our students benefit most from is a thoughtful teacher who structures the environment to provide opportunities for students to read, write, and think about topics of interest that compel them forward. While I love the opportunities technology offers us to create and to provide resources I have never wanted to outsource my instruction to a program. I appreciate what you are doing every day for your students! Sincerely, Dawn