Teachers Need to be Self-Aware and Willing to Consider Their Implicit Biases

 Yes, it is important for teachers to be self-aware and willing to consider their implicit biases. Why should teachers seek to become aware of different cultures and diverse learners? Let's accept the premise that one purpose of culturally responsive pedagogy is to motivate and stimulate learning. Given that, how can we argue with proponents of the Funds of Knowledge theory, who suggest cultural relevance and responsiveness is founded on the student’s culture, community, and family? Such aspects of students’ worldview are referred to as assets (Moll, González, & Amanti, 2009; Roe, 2019).

The extent to which teachers learn about students’ assets is termed Funds of Knowledge. To increase students’ sense that they are a part of the classroom community, it is recommended that teachers learn about students’ families, community, and culture. Therefore, the student's Funds of Identify contributes to the teacher's Funds of Knowledge that can be utilized through a mindset of intentionality, care, optimism, respect, and trust (ICORT) to optimize an institution's people, places, policies, programs, and processes (5Ps) to create a climate that results in sustained academic success leading to the fullest development of human potential (Purkey & Novak, 2016; Anderson, 2020).  

However, stereotyping adversely impacts the education of diverse learners.  Stereotyping, biases, and lower teacher expectancies resulting from a lack of diverse cultural awareness negatively affects the educational experience of culturally diverse students.  Stereotyping can also manifest in biased curriculum materials and teaching practices. This can result in an education that is less relevant or inclusive for diverse learners, hindering their ability to connect with the material. Let’s further explore how this can be exhibited in the classroom:

Teacher Expectancies Effect often lead educators to have lower expectations for certain groups of students based on their race, ethnicity, gender, or other characteristics. When teachers expect less from diverse learners, they may plan for and provide less challenging assignments.  This reduces opportunities for growth, which can limit the potential of culturally diverse learners.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecies result from culturally diverse learners constantly being exposed to negative stereotypes, biases, or lower expectations.  These students may internalize the teachers’ exhibited beliefs and begin to believe that they are less capable. This can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, as the students start to perform poorly academically or behaviorally based on low expectations projected upon them.

Diverse learners who feel stereotyped or marginalized in the classroom may disengage from learning. They may feel like they don't belong or that their contributions are not valued.  This often leads to a lack of interest and motivation to excel academically.

Stereotyping can result in unequal treatment. Students who are perceived as fitting into a particular stereotype may receive less attention, fewer resources, and fewer opportunities for enrichment or support. This can lead to disparities in educational outcomes. We should always seek to pursue excellence and equity (Childress, 2009)

Constant exposure to stereotypes can have a detrimental impact on the mental health and well-being of diverse learners. They may experience anxiety, depression, or feelings of inferiority.  Any of these can hinder their ability to focus on learning. Furthermore, stereotypes can affect how peers interact with diverse learners. This can lead to social isolation and bullying, creating a hostile or unwelcoming environment that hinders their ability to focus on learning.

Stereotyping can influence diverse learners' career aspirations and choices. When not encouraged or supported in pursuing certain fields or professions, diverse learners may limit their options and miss out on fulfilling their potential. This limits career aspirations.  Thus, stereotyping can contribute to the underrepresentation of diverse learners in advanced classes, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles. This lack of representation can further reinforce stereotypes. Crucially, it limits the opportunities for students victimized by implicit biases and stereotyping.

The adverse effects of stereotyping can have long-term consequences on diverse learners' educational attainment and future socioeconomic opportunities. Lower academic achievement and reduced self-confidence can limit their prospects in higher education and the job market. To mitigate the adverse impacts of stereotyping on the education of diverse learners, it is crucial for educators, schools, and policymakers to promote inclusive and culturally responsive teaching practices, foster a supportive and equitable learning environment, and challenge stereotypes and biases whenever they arise. Additionally, raising awareness and providing training on the importance of diversity and inclusion can help create a more equitable educational system for all students.

As educators, we need to promote equity in access.  In this endeavor, it is important to honestly explore potential barriers and our biases. Therefore, you are invited to access, explore, and participate in the free Harvard Implicit Association Test(s) .  Thank you again for this opportunity to teach and learn.

To Cite:

Anderson, C.J. (September 30, 2023) Teachers need to be self-aware and willing to consider

      their implicit biases. [Web log post]  Retrieved from http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

 

Additional References:

Anderson, C. J. (2021). Developing your students' emotional intelligence and philosophical perspective begins with I-CORT. Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, 27, 36-50.

 

Childress, S. M. (2009). Six Lessons for Pursuing Excellence and Equity at Scale. Phi Delta Kappan, 91(3), 13-18.

 

Moll, L., González, N., & Amanti, C. (2009). Funds of knowledge: Theorizing practices in             households, communities, and classroom: Routledge

 

Neitzel, J. Research to practice: understanding the role of implicit bias in early childhood

            disciplinary practices. Retrieved from Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education 2018, VOL. 39, NO. 3, 232–242

Purkey, W. W., & Novak, J. M. (2016). Fundamentals of invitational education. (2^nd Ed)             International Alliance for Invitational Education. Retrieved from: BOOKS | IAIE (invitationaleducation.org)

 

Roe. K. (2019) Supporting student assets and demonstrating respect for funds of knowledge.              Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, v25 p5-13

 

Yeager, D. S., & Walton, G. M. (2011). Social-psychological interventions in education:             They’re not magic. Review of Educational Research, 81, 267-301

Intentional Invitations Promote Exhibition of the Seven Correlates of Effective Schools

 As a result of effective public schools, all children can learn at high levels including children from low socio-economic status (SES).  Unique characteristics and processes found in schools where all students were learning at high levels regardless of SES status were correlated with student success; therefore, the term "correlates" has been subsequently referenced in Effective Schools Research.  The seven interconnected correlates include:

 

·               Safe and Orderly Environment

·               Clear and Focused Mission

·               Climate of High Expectations for Success

·               Opportunity to Learn & Student Time on Task

·               Frequent Monitoring of Student Progress

·               Positive Home-School Relations

·               Strong Instructional Leadership (Lezotte, 1991)

 

As a bridge between the initial work by Edmonds and more recent research related to school reform, the research by Levine and Lezotte (1990) focused upon correlates of effectiveness, processes for creating effective schools, and achievement criteria for determining the success of these efforts.  During this time, Levine and Lezotte encouraged an emphasis on dual research that focused upon the instructional features of effective teaching and the organizational features of effective schools.  Ultimately, the Seven Correlates noted above and the Six Essential Elements of School Reform (below) formed the basic beliefs framing improvement based upon Effective Schools Research.

The six essential attributes for school reform are:

·                     Data Driven

·                     Results Oriented

·                     Research Based

·                     Focused on Quality and Equity

·                     Collaborative Is Form

·                     Ongoing and Self-Renewing

 

When the strong instructional leader promotes an authentic, intentionally inviting culture for success, then several of the seven interdependent Correlates of Effective Schools Research should be present in that school.  Yes, reliable formative assessment and monitoring student academic and functional skills growth often are not observed in less effective schools.  When progress monitoring based on reliable data is missing, then typically the institutional expectation for respectful, positive home-school relations would also seldom be observed.

If those two Correlates of Effective Schools Research are absent in relation to general education programming, what do you think is happening in relation to diverse learners with special needs?

Ineffective schools that do not collect academic and functional skill development that see parents/caretakers as adversaries rather than advocates too often track ongoing deficits rather than addressing how the student's strengths and growth can be celebrated and used to mitigate problem areas.

Differentiated Instruction and data-based progress monitoring results in high-quality PLAAFP statements that produce more valid academic and pro-social functional goals in a student’s Individualized Educational Program.  When Differentiated Instruction and data-based progress monitoring are utilized effectively, they contribute to the development of high-quality PLAAFP statements by ensuring the statements are:

Individualized: Based on the student’s unique strengths, needs, and preferences.

Accurate: Measurable data that reliably represents current performance.

Actionable: Guides instructional planning, goal-setting, and intervention strategies.

Dynamic: Adaptable based on student's progress and evolving needs and abilities..

Therefore, by rigorously incorporating Differentiated Instruction and data-based progress monitoring the process of creating PLAAFP statements empowers educators to make informed decisions, individualize instruction and ultimately contribute to more effective and meaningful education plans for diverse learners and students with disabilities.

Empowering parent or caretaker involvement in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process can have a profound impact on fostering positive home-school relations and student learning outcomes. When parents are actively engaged in their child's education and collaborate with educators to develop and implement the IEP, several benefits can arise, which lead to improved home-school relations.  These include:

 

Shared Decision-Making: Involving parents in the IEP process allows them to contribute their valuable insights and knowledge about their child's strengths, challenges, and preferences. This collaborative approach creates a sense of shared decision-making, where parents and educators work together to design an education plan that best meets the child's needs. Thus, empowered inclusivity enhances parents' perception that their input is valued and respected, leading to a more positive view of the school and teachers.

 

Trust and Communication: Engaging parents in the IEP process promotes open lines of communication between home and school. Regular discussions about the child's progress, goals, and strategies build a foundation of trust and transparency. When parents feel well-informed and heard, they are more likely to trust the school's expertise and efforts, resulting in a stronger partnership between parents and educators.

 

Understanding of Individualized Needs: Parents are often the experts on their child's unique qualities, learning styles, and preferences. Their involvement ensures that the IEP is truly individualized, reflecting the child's strengths and addressing their challenges comprehensively. This personalized approach enhances the child's educational experience and shows that the school values a holistic understanding of the student.

 

Consistency in Support: When parents are actively engaged in the IEP process, they gain a clear understanding of the child's goals, accommodations, and strategies. This knowledge allows parents to reinforce and extend support for their child's learning at home. When parents and educators are aligned in their approach, it creates a consistent support system that benefits the child's progress.

 

Positive Attitudes: Empowering parents in the IEP process can improve their overall attitudes towards the school and educators. When parents feel included and valued, their perceptions of the school become more positive. This positivity can extend to interactions with teachers and school staff, contributing to a harmonious and respectful atmosphere.

 

Greater Advocacy Skills: Active involvement in the IEP process equips parents with a better understanding of special education policies, procedures, and their child's rights. This knowledge empowers parents to become effective advocates for their child's needs, ensuring that the child receives the appropriate services and supports. As parents develop stronger advocacy skills, they can engage with the school on a more informed level, leading to better collaboration.

 

Student-Centered Focus: A collaborative IEP process underscores the shared commitment to the well-being and success of the student. Both parents and educators have a common goal: to support the child's growth and development. This shared focus on the student's best interests encourages positive home-school relations, as all parties work together with genuine care and dedication.

 

In conclusion, empowering parent or caretaker involvement in the IEP process cultivates a sense of partnership, trust, and collaboration between parents and educators. This, in turn, leads to positive home-school relations, benefiting the child's overall educational experience and success. The link to the Center for Parent Information and Resources should be bookmarked and regularly accessed by every stakeholder desirous of improving a school’s Home-School Relations.  Related to students with special needs, respecting confidentiality and encouraging the right of parents to inspect and review the child’s educational records empowers partnership and transparency.  Is there a better way to mitigate fear and encourage leading with love?

 

 

To Cite:

Anderson, C.J. (August 31, 2023) Intentional Invitations Promote Exhibition of the Seven

      Correlates of Effective Schools. [Web log post]  Retrieved from

      http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

 

References

Childress, S. M. (2009). Six Lessons for Pursuing Excellence and Equity at Scale. Phi Delta Kappan, 91(3), 13-18.

Edmonds, R. (1979). Effective Schools for the Urban Poor. Educational Leadership, 37,

15-24.

Levine, D. U., & Lezotte, L. W. (1990). Unusually Effective Schools: A Review and Analysis

of Research and Practice. Madison, WI: The National Center for Effective Schools

Research and Development.

Lezotte, L. W. (1991) Correlates of Effective Schools: The First and Second Generation.

            http://www.effectiveschools.com/images/stories/escorrelates.pdf

 

Taylor, B. O. (2002). The Effective Schools Process: Alive and Well. Phi Delta Kappan, 83(5),

            375.

Utilizing Invitational Education Theory to Adopt Ethical Artificial Intelligence Policy

Should we fear being closer than expected to the singularity? As noted in Costaldo's (2023) article:  ‘I hope I’m wrong’: Why some experts see doom in AI - The Globe and Mail, Chat GPT was able to recognize the intended humor and provide a comprehensive analysis of the author’s. What does it mean that surveyed teacher education Graduate students were unable to either identify the humor or comprehend the meaning of the Fox News quip noted within the article?

 Do you fear that the Terminator will be part of Earth's evolution? From a rational and ethical perspective, what needs to be done to optimize Artificial Intelligence (AI) so it does not end up seeing humans as a threat to its existence? Too often, technology is typically formulated based on game-theory, which identifies winners and losers. To counter this, should the development of ethics in computer science become an immediate moral imperative? 

What happens when technology proceeds based on a game-theory approach? The early 20th Century Eugenics Movement proceeded unchecked by ethics related to Human Rights.  The belief in racial purity fueled the misguided belief in Aryan superiority, which was a foundation of the Nazi Party.  As an aftermath of two world wars whereby neither ethics nor human rights were observed, the UN Declaration of Human Rights (1948) was developed and provided a foundation for the Universal Declaration of Bioethics and Human Rights (2005). 

So, is it prudent to proactively develop a Universal Declaration of Computer Science Ethics? Would such a universal declaration encourage technological innovation while minimizing a technological singularity whereby humans are perceived as a threat to that technology's existence? Should ethics in computer science become a moral imperative? If so, should there be an intergovernmental panel to examine the ramifications of artificial intelligence? Such an endeavor will require more than an addendum to a current document.

Given its emphasis on the five institutional domains: People, Places, Policies, Programs and Processes; can utilization of Invitational Education theory ensure Intentionality, Care, Optimism, Respect, and Trust (ICORT) are the elements that lead people’s development of ethical AI policy?  Yes! Utilization of Invitational Education theory can help ensure that Intentionality, Care, Optimism, Respect, and Trust (ICORT) are integrated into the development of ethical AI policy thereby guiding places, programs, and processes towards safe innovation and utilization of technology. Invitational Education theory focuses on creating a positive and inclusive learning environment. Therefore, by applying this mindset to the context of AI policy development, a more ethical and human-centered approach to technology will be fostered.

The following begins the discussion of how Invitational Education theory and an ICORT mindset can be utilized by stakeholders involved with the five institutional domains to develop a universal declaration that encourages technological innovation while minimizing a technological singularity that perceives humans as a threat:

Intentionality: Invitational Education encourages intentional and purposeful actions. When developing AI policies, it's essential to have a clear intention to prioritize human welfare, safety, and ethical considerations. This means setting explicit goals for the policy that prioritize the well-being of individuals and society as a whole; helping to ensure AI is designed and deployed with a positive impact in mind.

Care: As a fundamental aspect of Invitational Education, care emphasizes the importance of showing genuine concern and empathy towards individuals. Applying care to AI policy development involves considering the potential risks and benefits of AI technology on different groups and ensuring that vulnerable populations are protected. The policy should address issues like bias, fairness, and inclusivity in AI systems.

Optimism: Invitational Education seeks to instill a positive outlook on human potential. In the context of AI policy, this means fostering optimism about the possibilities of AI while being mindful of potential pitfalls. Ethical AI policy should encourage innovation and progress while maintaining a cautious approach to ensure AI is developed and used responsibly.

Respect: As a core principle of Invitational Education, mutual respect among all individuals involved in the learning environment should be promoted. In the context of AI policy development, this involves respecting the diverse perspectives of stakeholders, including AI experts, policymakers, ethicists, and members of the public. Policymakers should engage in open dialogue and consider various viewpoints to create more robust and inclusive policies.

Trust: Building and maintaining trust is essential for an effective learning environment, and the same applies to AI policy. Invitational Education emphasizes creating a climate of trust, whereby individuals feel safe and confident to share their ideas and concerns. Ethical AI policy must be transparent, accountable, and trustworthy to gain public support and confidence in the technology's responsible use.

Integrating Invitational Education theory into the development of AI policies, policymakers can create more comprehensive and ethically sound guidelines that prioritize human values, safety, and well-being. The resulting policies can lead places, programs, and processes towards safe innovation and utilization of technology. This will potentially foster an AI ecosystem that is beneficial and empowering for all. 

To cite:

Anderson, C.J. (July 31, 2023). Utilizing Invitational Education Theory to adopt ethical artificial

            intelligence policy. [Web log post] Retrieved from http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

References:

Anderson, C. J. (2021). Developing your students' emotional intelligence and philosophical

 perspective begins with I-CORT. Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, 27, 36-50.

Purkey, W. W., & Novak, J. M. (2016). Fundamentals of invitational education. (2^nd Ed)

            International Alliance for Invitational Education. Retrieved from: BOOKS | IAIE (invitationaleducation.org)

Purkey, W. W., & Siegel, B. L. (2013). Becoming an invitational leader: A new approach  

            to professional and personal success. Humanics. Retrieved from:  BOOKS | IAIE (invitationaleducation.org)

 Shaw, D., Siegel, B., & Schoenlein, A. (2013). The basic tenets of invitational theory and

practice: An invitational glossary. Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, 19, 30-42

 U.S. Department of Education, Office of Educational Technology (2023), Artificial Intelligence

            and Future of Teaching and Learning: Insights and Recommendations. Retrieved

            from: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning (ed.gov)

 Welch, G. & Smith, K. (2014) From theory to praxis: Applying invitational education beyond

schools. Journal of Invitational Theory and Practice, 20, 5-10

 

The Role of Teacher Preparation Programs Related to K-12 Students’ Future Utilization of AI

As the 2022-23 academic year draws to a close and summer begins, let’s discuss a few of the significant benefits and obvious risks posed by K-12 students’ utilization of artificial intelligence. Given the debate already forming about K-12 students' utilization of artificial intelligence, let us at least agree that there are benefits and risks. This discussion will therefore begin by reviewing only three of the more obvious benefits and three of the more agreed upon risks associated with their usage:

1. Benefits of Personalized Learning: AI can provide personalized learning experiences tailored to individual students' needs and learning styles. By analyzing data such as performance, progress, and preferences, AI algorithms can adapt instructional content, pace, and difficulty levels to optimize learning outcomes. This personalized approach enhances engagement, promotes self-paced learning, and helps students grasp concepts more effectively.
2. Benefits of Enhanced Access to Education: Clearly, AI can bridge the gap in educational resources by providing access to quality education for students who might otherwise face geographical, financial, or physical barriers. Through online platforms and AI-powered tools, students can access educational content, participate in virtual classrooms, and receive personalized tutoring from anywhere, promoting inclusivity and enabling equitable education opportunities.
3. Benefits from Analyzing Student Performance and Needs: Potentially, AI can analyze vast amounts of student data and generate actionable insights for educators. By evaluating patterns and trends, AI algorithms can identify students' strengths, weaknesses, and areas where they may need additional support. This information will enable teachers to provide targeted interventions and design customized learning plans, facilitating effective teaching and ideally resulting in student success.

 

1. Security and Data Privacy Risks: For example, the utilization of AI in K-12 education involves the collection and analysis of large amounts of student data. This raises concerns about data privacy and security. If not properly managed, there is a risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, or misuse of sensitive student information. It is crucial to implement robust security measures and strict data protection protocols to mitigate these risks.
2. Bias and Discrimination Risks: For example. AI systems are trained on large datasets, and if those datasets contain biases, the AI algorithms may perpetuate and amplify these biases. This can result in discriminatory outcomes, such as biased grading, biased recommendations, or reinforcing existing inequalities in education. Careful attention must be given to the development and training of AI systems to ensure they are fair, unbiased, and promote diversity and inclusivity.
3. Reduced Human Interaction and Skills Risks: For example, increased reliance upon AI in K-12 education may lead to reduced human interaction between students and teachers or students and students. While AI can offer personalized learning experiences, it cannot fully replace the valuable aspects of human interaction, including emotional support, critical thinking development, and social skills. Overdependence on AI could therefore potentially hinder students' ability to develop essential interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.

If we recognize and address the risks associated with AI in K-12 education while leveraging the significant benefits AI offers to teaching and learning, might we be more apt to embrace the potential to increase K-12 students’ research skills, promote their critical thinking, or encourage innovation and collaboration rather than merely viewing students’ utilization of AI as a form of cheating? Proper governance, transparency, and ongoing evaluation will certainly be necessary for the responsible and ethical use of AI technologies in the educational context. So, how can teacher preparation programs embrace the benefits while mitigating risks by preparing teacher candidates and educational leaders to share knowledge about artificial intelligence and promote engagement between educators concerning the potential of AI and encouraging forward-thinking technology policies for utilization of artificial intelligence in education?

Yes, teacher preparation programs must play a critical role in equipping teachers and educational leaders with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence in education. Following are six ways teacher preparation programs can begin addressing benefits and risks posed by K-12 students’ utilization of artificial intelligence.  The six are meant to begin, not end the discussion:

1. Curriculum Integration: Teacher preparation programs should integrate AI-related topics into their curricula to familiarize future educators with AI concepts, applications, and their implications in the classroom. This can include courses or modules specifically dedicated to AI in education, covering topics such as AI ethics, data privacy, and AI-supported instructional strategies.
2. Professional Development: Teacher preparation programs should provide ongoing professional development opportunities for in-service teachers to enhance their understanding of AI and its role in education. These programs can offer workshops, webinars, or conferences to introduce teachers to AI tools, showcase best practices, and engage them in discussions about the benefits and risks associated with AI utilization.
3. Ethical Considerations and Policy Development: Teacher preparation programs can educate future educators and educational leaders about the ethical considerations involved in AI adoption. This includes discussing issues of bias, privacy, security, and equity. Additionally, programs can guide participants in developing technology policies that address the responsible and ethical use of AI in education, ensuring transparency, fairness, and the protection of student data.
4. 4.    Collaborative Partnerships: Teacher preparation programs should foster partnerships with industry experts, researchers, and AI developers to stay updated on the latest advancements and research in AI technologies. Collaborations can provide valuable insights into emerging trends, challenges, and best practices, enabling teacher educators to deliver up-to-date knowledge to their students.
5. Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy: Teacher preparation programs should emphasize the development of critical thinking skills and digital literacy among educators. By incorporating these skills into the curriculum, future teachers will be better equipped to critically evaluate AI applications, identify potential biases, and make informed decisions about integrating AI tools into their classrooms.
6. Classroom Integration and Practical Experience: Teacher preparation programs should provide opportunities for pre-service teachers to gain hands-on experience with AI tools and technologies in real classroom settings. This can be achieved through practicum experiences, internships, or collaborative projects with schools that have implemented AI initiatives. By engaging with AI in practical contexts, future educators can better understand its benefits, challenges, and adapt it to meet the diverse needs of their students.

Embracing the need to address these aspects of AI utilization is within the purvey of teacher preparation programs.  Their teacher candidates and educational leaders can receive the professional development that will result in a comprehensive understanding of AI, its potential, and the associated benefits and risks. Thus, direct instruction and the exchange of unbiased knowledge will enable teacher candidates and educational leaders to effectively share information, engage in informed discussions, and shape policies that ensure responsible and effective utilization of AI in education.

 

To cite:

Anderson, C.J. (June 30, 2023). The role of teacher preparation programs related to K-12 students’ future utilization of AI. [Web log post] Retrieved from http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

References:

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Educational Technology, Artificial Intelligence and Future of Teaching and Learning: Insights and Recommendations, Washington, DC, 2023. Retrieved from: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning (ed.gov)

Integrating Universal Design for Learning Principles to Effectively Differentiate Instruction.

 The teacher's knowledge of the three Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles - Multiple Means of Engagement, Representation, and Expression/Action - is crucial in helping differentiate instruction.  Yes, understanding The UDL Guidelines improves the effectiveness of differentiating the lesson’s four key elements:  content, process, product, and students’ affect related to the learning environment.  For instance, by understanding and applying the principles of Multiple Means of Engagement, the teacher can present content in a variety of ways, such as visual aids, audio recordings, or hands-on activities, to cater to students with diverse learning preferences. This can help students better comprehend and retain information and engage more effectively with the lesson.

Similarly, by using Multiple Means of Representation, the teacher can provide different avenues for students to demonstrate their understanding of the content. For example, students can express their learning through written assignments, oral presentations, or visual projects. This approach can help students showcase their strengths and preferences while also providing opportunities for growth.

Finally, the principle of Multiple Means of Expression/Action emphasizes the importance of providing students with various ways to engage in the learning process. For example, students can choose to work independently, in pairs, or in groups, and can use different tools and technologies to complete tasks. This approach can help students feel more invested in their learning and increase their motivation and engagement.

Instructional strategies need to be sensitive to the needs and abilities of diverse learners. Teachers who are intentionally inviting, plan effective differentiated instruction based on content, process, product students’ affect related to the learning environment. This exhibits an embrace of the following:

1.    Students have different learning styles: Students have different ways of processing information, and what works for one student may not work for another. By considering different instructional approaches, a teacher can better reach all students and help them learn in a way that is most effective for them.

2.    Students have different levels of understanding: Not all students come into the classroom with the same level of understanding or background knowledge (Van Garderen, 2015). Differentiated instruction allows a teacher to meet students where they are and provide instruction that is appropriate for their level of understanding (Subban, 2006).

3.    Students have different needs: Some students may need more support or challenge than others. By considering differentiated instruction, a teacher can provide targeted instruction to meet the needs of all students (Wormeli, 2017).

 

Therefore, differentiating the key elements of the lesson’s content, process, and product positively impacts the students’ affect related to the learning environment, which is observed by increased student engagement and motivation: By using diverse approaches, planning different instructional strategies, and offering choice, teachers can keep students engaged and self-motivated. The ensuing increased student participation in turn leads to higher levels of learning and achievement.

By providing tailored support and challenge, promoting collaboration and inquiry-based learning, using effective formative feedback, integrating technology, and building positive relationships, teachers can create a classroom environment that is respectful, engaging, and conducive to learning.

In summary, a teacher's knowledge of the UDL principles of Multiple Means of Engagement, Representation, and Expression/Action can help them differentiate instruction effectively by providing a range of options for students to access content, demonstrate their learning, and engage in the learning process.

You are invited to access the university’s ERIC or EBSCO data bases and to then download the following articles.  These theorists researched the synthesis between UDL and differentiation.  Reading and adding their suggestions to your pedagogical toolbox should be beneficial in the short and long term…:

To cite:

Anderson, C.J. (May 31, 2023). Integrating Universal Design for Learning principles to effectively differentiation instruction. [Web log post] Retrieved from http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

References:

 Fisher, D., Frey, N., & Hattie, J. (2016). The differentiated classroom: Responding to the needs of all learners. ASCD.

Hall, T., Strangman, N., & Meyer, A. (2011). Differentiated instruction and implications for UDL implementation. National Center on Universal Design for Learning.

 Rose, D. H., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for learning. ASCD.

Subban, P. (2006). Differentiated instruction: A research basis. International Education Journal, 7(7), 935-947. Retrieved from: https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ854351

Tomlinson, C. A. (2014). The differentiated classroom: Responding to the needs of all learners. ASCD.

 Tomlinson, C. A., & Moon, T. R. (2013). Assessment and student success in a differentiated classroom. ASCD.

 

Van Garderen, D. (2015). Differentiating instruction in elementary mathematics: Challenges and strategies. Routledge.

 

Wormeli, R. (2017). Fair isn't always equal: Assessment and grading in the differentiated classroom. Stenhouse Publishers. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED592455

Developing Instructional Plans Based on Students’ Academic Achievement, Functional Performance, and Funds of Identity

 A teacher's knowledge of her students' academic achievement (Johnson & Nelson, 2018), functional performance (Suldo, Friedrich, White, Farmer, Minch, & Michalowski, 2017), and Funds of Identity (Gay, 2018; Gonzalez , Moll, & Amanti 2005) is the foundation for effective, differentiated lesson planning.  Why is it crucial to know these elements of the classroom if your goal is develop effective instructional lesson plans?  Consider the following:

1.    Academic Achievement: Understanding the academic achievement level of each student in the class enables the teacher to tailor the instruction to meet the specific needs of each student. This knowledge helps the teacher to differentiate instruction by identifying areas where students need extra support or challenge.

2.    Functional Performance: Functional performance refers to a student's ability to perform daily living skills, such as communication, social skills, and self-care. By understanding a student's functional performance level, a teacher can incorporate activities and strategies into the lesson plan that support the development of these skills.

3.    Funds of Identity: The Funds of Identity refer to the cultural, linguistic, and personal experiences that students bring to the classroom. Incorporating students' Funds of Identity into the lesson plan helps to create a culturally responsive learning environment, which can increase student engagement and learning.

The teacher's knowledge of her students' academic achievement, functional performance, and Funds of Identity allows her to create a lesson plan that is tailored to meet the specific needs of each student, leading to better academic and personal outcomes.  This is just part of the goal.  How comfortable are you with developing or even using rubrics as an effective formative assessment tool for measuring and analyzing student learning?

Rubrics provide a clear framework for evaluating student performance on specific learning objectives (Andrade, 2005).  Formative assessment provides ongoing feedback to students that can be used to guide instruction and improve student outcomes (Black & Wiliam, 1998). By treating rubrics and formative assessment as complimentary, teachers can collect a wealth of data on student learning that can be used to analyze trends and patterns over time. Rubrics help to standardize the evaluation process and provide a common language for discussing student performance, while formative assessment helps to identify areas where students are struggling and where additional support may be needed.

With this data, teachers can then use data-based analysis to make informed decisions about instructional strategies and interventions. For example, if a teacher notices that many students are consistently struggling with a particular concept, they may use this data to adjust their instruction or provide additional resources to support student learning.  Yes, using rubrics with formative assessment processes can lead to effective data-based analysis of student learning by providing teachers with consistent and meaningful data on student performance that can be used to make informed decisions about instruction and interventions (Heritage, 2010).

Obviously, it is important to develop instructional plans that are sensitive to the academic achievement, functional performance, and Funds of Identity exhibited by your students. To benefit your teaching and your students’ learning, you are invited to access your University’s Libraries’ EBSCO or ERIC databases. Then, review and bookmark the following references.  They are valuable resources for your pedagogical toolbox.

To cite:

Anderson, C.J. (April 30, 2023). Developing instructional plans based on students’ academic achievement, functional performance, and Funds of Identity. [Web log post] Retrieved from        http://www.ucan-cja.blogspot.com/

 

References:

Andrade, H. G. (2000). Using rubrics to promote thinking and learning. Educational Leadership, 57(5), 13-18. https://www.ascd.org/el/articles/using-rubrics-to-promote-thinking-and-learning

 

Black, P., & Wiliam, D. (1998). Inside the black box: Raising standards through classroom assessment. Phi Delta Kappan, 80(2), 139-148. https://doi.org/10.1177/003172171908000205

Gay, G. (2018). Culturally responsive teaching: Theory, research, and practice (3rd ed.)              Teachers College Press.

Gonzalez, N., Moll, L. C., & Amanti, C. (2005). Funds of knowledge: Theorizing practices            in households, communities, and classrooms. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates         Publishers.

 

Heritage, M. (2010). Formative assessment: Making it happen in the classroom.  Corwin Press.

Johnson, C. L., & Nelson, M. J. (2018). Understanding student academic achievement:             The role of teacher expectations. Journal of Educational Research and Practice, 8(1), 27-38. doi: 10.5590/JERAP.2018.08.1.03

Suldo, S. M., Friedrich, A. A., White, T., Farmer, J., Minch, D., & Michalowski, J. (2017).             Teacher support and student functional performance: A mixed-methods investigation. Journal of School Psychology, 61, 69-83. doi: 10.1016/j.jsp.2016.12.001