Many tools exist to assist students in gaining a better understanding of and retention of content being taught in schools. Educators realize that all students do not learn in the same way and therefore multiple strategies need to be available to insure student success.
Visual tools for spatial learning such as observation and experience in real life situations are considered the best methods of learning. In this manner teachers can “mimic” the experiences by using overviews and summaries prior to teaching and as a review prior to assessment. The “big picture” can then be visualized by the learners.
Teachers need to not only have a well-organized physical classroom setting, but an organized method of presenting online platforms, as well. By implementing online programs such as Lumos Learning, the teacher is able to maintain control of the curriculum while enhancing review with resources for assignments, practice assessments, parent and administrator communication, and beneficial feedback. This method ensures teaching to a diverse population and all stakeholders become an integral part of the learning process. The assignments can be viewed and taken as a class with the use of smartboards, or individually on each student’s device. With the use of multiple videos for review/tutorials/homework, students can reinforce the classroom learning wherever the internet is available.
Learning strategies help to complete the lifelong content learning for students.
Below are suggested learning strategies to incorporate content “high points”.
- Teachers review weekly/daily the learning objective to be covered.
- Organization techniques using notebooks/tabs/online note files.
- Step by step learning with visuals and clues.
- Tables for reference to formulas for math and science.
- Using graphic applications with keys.
- Relating to real world experiences for a “hook” to learning.
- Use of technology aides- calculators, pausing, repeated reading, audio, vocabulary defined/pronounced.
- When reading texts, skim prior/reread three times for clarity/take notes.
- Highlighting texts to emphasize important information.
- New vocabulary identified for clarification.
- Review notes prior to test.
- Be able to write all formulas without hesitation.
- Make visual clues to help you remember important facts.
- If you are taking a time test, do what you know first and then go back to those you are not sure of and work on them.
- Teach note taking skills repeatedly.
- Use concept maps to get ideas on paper.
- Give students guided notes to help them learn what to look for in the content and what to remember for assessments.
As any well- trained educator knows, there is no one solution to teaching and learning. Various techniques and strategies are involved in the learning process to promote success.
Lumos Learning offers many of these techniques in its online program for assessment practice and lessons.
