Mary McClure, EdD, LPC Class 3

Multiple approaches to instruction are probably appropriate… Diversity of student populations is increasing – more inclusive classrooms Accountability is increasing – but metrics are fuzzy Many challenges for teachers…

The constructivist approach is a learner-centered approach which emphasizes the importance of individuals actively constructing their knowledge and understanding with guidance from the teacher Students should be encouraged to explore their world, discover knowledge, reflect, and think critically with careful monitoring and meaning guidance from the teacher Today, constructivism may include an emphasis on collaboration – students working with each other in their efforts to know and understand

The direct instruction approach is a structured, teacher-centered approach that is characterized by: Teacher direction and control High teacher expectations for student’s progress Maximum time spent by students on academic tasks Increasing accountability may inform what is taught and how… teaching to the test?

inclusive classroom – typical learner, gifted student, ADHD, autism spectrum, learning disabled, behavioral issues. clear expectations for classroom performance. variety of instructional activities to suit the needs of diverse learners. Lecture and discussion is appropriate for the higher-level students and abstract thinkers. Demonstrations are designed for the benefit of most students at this age, using hands-on activities to establish concepts for concrete thinkers. Jeopardy is a format that students enjoy, but essentially uses a drill and practice approach similar to the direct instruction strategy.

Critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally. It includes the ability to engage in reflective and independent thinking. understand the logical connections between ideas identify, construct and evaluate arguments detect inconsistencies and common mistakes in reasoning solve problems systematically identify the relevance and importance of ideas reflect on the justification of one's own beliefs and values

Grade to middle school Middle to high school High school to college College to ‘real-world Feedback from employers that critical thinking skills most key in increasingly dynamic environment

The social context differs at the preschool, elementary, and secondary level In preschool and elementary school, the classroom is the major context As children move into middle or junior high schools, the school environment increases in scope and complexity The social field is the school as a whole rather than the classroom The student in secondary schools is usually aware of the school as a social system and may be motivated to conform and adapt to the system or to challenge it

10-10 Positive environment for learning Using an authoritative strategy Effectively managing the group’s activities Authoritative strategy of classroom management: Encourages students to be independent thinkers and doers but still involves effective monitoring Is typical classroom climate a good match for attributes of developmental stage of adolescence ??