Rubrics are great so that the student knows what the expectations are for the assignemnt and how each section will impact their grade.
Recognizing learning challenges is very important in teaching process. These challenges include learning disabilities that refer to difficulties to process information. Also issues with comprehension, application of content, etc. I usually work with student services department where I get help and suggestion on how to accommodate students with disabilities. It is well known that people have different learning styles and if a person has learning disability, it is more imperative that these differences are met and considered during the learning process. If I get a student with learning disabilities in my class, I try to design instructions in a way that they are easy to follow, make them visual, prepare concept maps, etc.
It was very interesting to learn from this module that use of rubrics, which I do in my classes, is one of the methods of holistic assessment. I personally like rubrics since they assess qualitatively.
Knowing the learning preference is key to preparing a lesson/task. I'll start by catering to their prefered learning style to draw them into the learning. Then gradually shift the learning and comprehention to be more open to other learning styles.
Learning preferences vs. learning challenges - hoe they differ
Holistic assessments allow students to show what they know through a variety of methods, It is important to get to know each student and get a focus on their learning preferences and best means of expression.
Usually I put a mixture of students in groups, some who are hands on and some who are fact based. This way they help each other reach a solution
The state of Minnesota attempted to utlize student portfolieos as part of the profiles of lerning assessment program. This was intended to allowe students to demonstrate attainment of learning standards and expectations through alterntaive means. The program lasted for only a few years because it was too complex, was poorly guided, and utilized by students who only wanted to get out of taking a standardized test. The state has since returned to standardized testing. Portfolios are now only allowed for students in Special Education. I taught in an alternative education program during the time when the Profile in Learning was still law. Students who were very hands on learners tended to utlize the portfolio approach. Traditional academic coursework which learns more heavily on reading, knowldge retention, writing, and communication were not well suited for these learners. Examining portolio outcomes did give me, as an instructor, a better understanding of the student's learning difficulties. For instance, it was easier for me as the instructor to determine the student's reading and language proficiency based on thier use of language. This then became the basis for determining if the student required futher services.
