Hi David!
As you know, one-on-one is the best. However, if an instructor does not have the time necessary to devote to a student - what do you think is the next best strategy?
Thanks!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
i agree with this. growing up i was diagnosed with ADD and the best thing that worked for me was one on one help with my teacher.
Clearly Michael these students require something extra - but I am of the mind that most students may not require extra but like to have it as well. So try some of the same techniques with all students.
Good job!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
The best way I found to deal with a challenged student is to attack as many of the senses as i can...sometimes there is not enough time, so i develop lessons that cover at least 3-4 senses when possible.
Great observation Patricia!
We naturally gravitate to people who are kind and thoughtful and care about others - and under these circumstances - to people who love learning.
I don't want to insult anyone, but I believe there is no better place than a classroom full of different people for learning.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
In my teaching environment we refer to this as the clover leaf. When an individual is just not getting the course material, my first attempt is generally to back out and come in from a different approach. In other words to use another leaf on the clover to get to the center or goal. Adjusting the delivery aspect with a minor rudder correction (for example a different analogy or life application) can often land the intended message.
Yes, my colleagues and I speak often about the challenges students present. If nothing else, we get reinforcement from each other. Most of the time, the conversations empower individuals in the conversation.
Understanding the student. Accept the challenge. Sharing the challenges with colleagues who might have experience with similar issues. At times, share the situation with fellow students (with the concurrence of the student with the disability).
I agree with your suggestion about pairing students for support. When a learner gets to make the choice of who s/he wants to work with, the LD student tends to gravitate toward the other students who have already been "kind" and assisted the struggling learner. I have learned many things from my students, but watching a patient student work with an LD student warms my heart!
I have been successful working with students with learning disabilities by simply speaking with the student(s) to gain insight into the learner's struggles. Most of the time, adult students will volunteer the information and I take it from there.
Telling students to ask me to rephrase questions helps when English is their second language.
Once identified I can "check-in" with the student to confirm they are keeping up with the material and comprehending the material.
I give more time and attention. I repeat and repeat and repeat. I sit beside them and ask them to read.
we try to have another instructor ask if they would like us to read the material to them.. waiting for them to give a possitive response. some times it takes a different kind of explanation.
Hi Christine!
I think this is applicable for every student for successful learning outcomes.
I really like your approach. Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
Keep the learning environment quiet, orderly, and structured are very helpful.
We have academic advising every quarter and it is a time for us to sit down with each student and we can discover learning disabilities at this time which can be helpful for the rest of the term in helping the student achieve.
I had a student who had trouble grasping read concepts. One test I read to her, and verbally accepted the answers. She went from an average of a 'C' level of testing to high 'B's. She could comprehend by listening far better than reading. It took little extra effort, but utilizing a different approach the student gained far more skill.
Hi Eon!
What impresses me is even though you haven't worked with special needs students, you certainly sound like a pro. But it is because you want to make a difference with all your students. I think you are on the right track with your approach.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
Jay the area of working with student with learning disabilities is new to me. I have never had the opportunity to work with any students with this issue. If I have to do it the two major things I would do is one find out from student what he or she will need to progress and then integrate it into my teaching style. Second thing would be to deliver information at a slower pace for them to comprehend and not irritate the balance of the class.
