Journal # 4 - One size never fits all

Courduff, J. (2011). One size never fits all. Learning and Leading, 37(8), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-june-july-2011.aspx

The article, One size never a fit all (Courduff, 2011) discusses how education and the modes in which we teach must be varied in order to address the needs of each student. In particular the article addresses the needs of students in Special Education and the ways in which educators can use technology to support the various learning levels. To begin the article discusses a Tier system for teaching students and teachers how to use technology to learn. Later on the article discusses a tool called Fusion Writers. Fusion writers are portable computers that can be used as text to talk or talk to text.

How would you use fusion writers in the classroom?

I would use fusion writers to promote and differentiate writing assignments. Based on the student’s level fusion writers can support the student in developing and organizing ideas (talk to text) with out the stress of spelling, and printing. Or for advanced students who can spell and type fusion writers can support them in developing sentence structure by reading back what the students have written.

Is the Tier learning system necessary for teacher and students to learn how to integrate technology?

Yes, I believe it is absolutely necessary! So many times we go to training and get a feel for a new program but then we do not use it immediately and what happens, we forget. Or we are not sure how to integrate it into our classroom. The tier training system that Etiwanda school district developed is very practical and important. It is great how the first tier is hands on and teaches them about how to use technology. Then the second tier still provides face-to-face support and introduces more technology. In the end teachers and students continue to learn more about technology but through online collaboration. The tier system instills independence and confidence in all parties to continue to seek new technologies. Helping ever size find their fit.