"A way of thinking that creates something new and better" is how George Couros (2015) defines innovation in his book and guide, The Innovator's Mindset. He conceptualizes this term in chapter one, explaining what innovation both is and is not. Emphasizing that technology is only the tool and not the outcome, innovation involves transforming the learning environments and practices to make it newer and better.
An innovative practice that leads to a more personalized learning environment (newer and better for many) is the use of learning management systems (LMS). The type of LMS doesn't matter. Teachers may use Google classroom, Schoology, Edmodo, Moodle, Blackboard or a variety of others. It is this practice that helps to make both differentiation and personalization more efficient than ever. Here are just a few ways an LMS can foster an innovative culture and environment.
1) Reading (at the students independent and instructional levels)
Teachers can group students and/or provide individual students themed-related reading texts at their reading levels. The LMS provides a confidential way to protect students reading texts several years below grade level.
2) Flipping lessons
Teachers can record their mini lessons and post them in the LMS for students to view, pause, and replay until they can better understand the instruction. If students do watch the videos as the "homework," the teacher is available to coach, assist, and facilitate the practice and doing part of the lesson in the classroom.
3) Linking Supplemental resources
Teachers can link resources that meet different multiple intelligences, so students can have the teaching that works best for them. A variety of online resources and personal teacher works can be quickly linked for students.
4) Collaborating (with peers in the classroom to across the world)
Not only can peers work together, teachers can set groups so multiple classes--even those in other states and countries can communicate and work together. In addition, communicating online offers support to our introverted students who need more time to think about what they want to say (post).
5) Engaging students (with digital media and personal choice)
Videos, social media, electronics, and several other forms of technology are tools used is today's students daily lives. This is a way to grab and keep their attention. Teachers can embed and link videos and a variety of other multi-media tools. Students can access and use those that are best for their learning.
Learning managements systems are an innovative practice, helping to make teaching and learning better (and more efficient). Instructional leaders can even use them to flip staff meetings and create a culture of professional leaning. The use of these systems is developing many of the skills students need to have for school and beyond.
"The type of LMS doesn't matter... It is this practice that helps to make both differentiation and personalization more efficient than ever."
ReplyDeleteLike technology itself, an LMS is a tool. The type of LMS depends on what your goals are. It's all about making the most out of the time you have with your students.