Understanding by Design with Blended Learning in our New Teacher Academy
In order to establish an effective learning environment, it is important to adopt a learner-centered approach that promotes inquiry, collaboration, digital learning, and COVA (Choice, Ownership, Voice, and Authentic Learning). A well-designed learning plan should align learning goals, activities, and assessments while integrating CSLE to facilitate genuine learning experiences and meaningful connections. This approach will enable learners to actively engage with the material and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. We need to begin by focusing on the end goal. Today's educators must equip their students with vital skills such as collaboration, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and innovation. Our innovation plan supports this objective by providing guidance and support to new teachers in our district through a combination of traditional and digital learning methods. These teachers will utilize digital tools to establish connections, reflect on their progress, and demonstrate their skill development. This approach will empower teachers to take charge of their own learning and teaching and ultimately implement the blended learning model in their classrooms.
Collecting from my 3-column table, I discussed specific learning outcomes and developed a detailed understanding of Design Temple. This built upon the information from the table by clearly defining our goals, indicating the expected results, providing assessment evidence, and outlining our learning plan.
3 Column Table vs Understanding by Design
Both frameworks focus on backward design, using the end goal to guide the development of activities and lessons. While the 3-column table provided a valuable starting point, the UbD framework allowed me to deepen my understanding of my goals and create a more effective plan adjusted to the specific needs of the teachers I'm working with.
Despite their differences, both frameworks play a crucial role in creating a significant learning environment for our new teachers. By strategically applying the appropriate template aligned with my innovation plan, I can continue to give our new teachers a voice and choice and provide authentic learning opportunities.
Despite their differences, both frameworks play a crucial role in creating a significant learning environment for our new teachers. By strategically applying the appropriate template aligned with my innovation plan, I can continue to give our new teachers a voice and choice and provide authentic learning opportunities.
References:
Fink, L. D. (2003). A Self-Directed Guide to Designing Courses for Significant Learning. Creating Significant Learning Experiences: An Integrated Approach to Designing College Courses. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Wiggins, G. & McTighe, J. (2005). Understanding by Design (expanded second ed.). Alexandria, Virginia: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Fink, L. D. (2003). A Self-Directed Guide to Designing Courses for Significant Learning. Creating Significant Learning Experiences: An Integrated Approach to Designing College Courses. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Wiggins, G. & McTighe, J. (2005). Understanding by Design (expanded second ed.). Alexandria, Virginia: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.