by Laura Vitale, Digital Media Specialist
The audio clip today focuses on taking a chance with some new ways of teaching. One of the scariest things for teachers new to personalized learning is also one of the most important things that needs to happen to create a truly personalized learning experience with students: the shift of control and responsibility from the teacher to the learner. I remember my husband early in his teaching career telling me he had a nightmare that he “lost control” of his classroom and the kids were running wild all over the classroom!
But, this shift of responsibility is so critical to personalized learning. Learners must have voice and choice in their experiences if they are to make connections and truly learn. Now, this doesn’t mean it’s a free for all, but it does mean teachers must work together with students, know where each student is in their learning trajectory, and where their needs, strengths, and interests intersect with their readiness to learn.
As you listen to the audio clip, you’ll hear educators talking a lot about this shift of responsibility and control. You’ll also hear them talk about getting to know their students in ways they never did before, the importance of listening, not just talking, and their struggles with changing the mental models they have long held about what teaching should be. After you’ve listened, we encourage you to explore the additional resources listed below.
New Ways of Teaching (audio)
Additional Resources:
Shelley Wright — “The Power of Student-Driven Learning”
“Educators Creating Learner-Centered Learning“
“Subverting the System: Student and Teacher as Equals”
Kathryn Schulz TED talk “On Being Wrong”
“Great Teaching Means Letting Go“
Audio interviews conducted by Ed Janus
Image: (c) Can Stock Photo Inc. / borodaev