Last week I was fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from a well respected expert on differentiated instruction, Carol Ann Tomlinson. For two days, together, we talked in depth about responsive teaching and the decisions we make about instruction should be the best ones for the "kids in the chairs." Even though we are aware of the diversity in our classrooms, are we still teaching as if each student is alike? Sara Kajder recognized the diversity of her classrooms, learned about each or her students, and proceeded with using cultural tools (cameras, software, computers, etc.) to turn her students on to reading. The strategies used tapped into the literacies central in the students' worlds. She engaged their strengths and interests, keeping them thnking...as C A Tomlinson would say, "making them sweat a little."...and proved to them that they were thoughtful and capable readers. Think for a moment. As the teacher of the student in the chair, can you make the link between the student's interest, learning preferences, and what the student finds relevant?
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C A Tomlinson is one those great educator gurus that has a lot to share and teach us. Like Kajder she recognizes that our profession has not progressed to teaching the learners instead of us teaching the curriculum. We have to be allowed to make that cross over.
I like the way you called people who don't want to change "techno-resisters." I hope I would never be called one of those. Throughout my 26 years in the classroom, I have had to make MANY changes in methods and I think I keep getting better. I am afraid there will always be those who think their way is right and refuse to change.
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