Students' work picture album:
This album of pictures of some of my students’ work shows that all students can learn. The work shown here is from girls, boys, 7th graders through 12th graders, special needs students and students who graduated as valedictorians. Each one of these students was able to design, make and finish a project of his/her liking. By guiding my students in this process I make my knowledge about the process of designing, problem solving, materials and techniques accessible; I emphasize free choice of project, material and techniques, which increases their motivation and self-concept. By so doing I also respect their individual differences. And in the case of group assignments, character and cooperative skills are being developed. Although these projects do not show the entire process that preceded the final product, the quality of work implies knowledge of the designing process, which reflects perseverance, planning, problem solving and care.
Some of the projects shown are community projects, projects made on the request of people and organizations in this community. I believe that students show civic responsibility by working on these projects that they don’t take home but are meant to benefit others.
The reason why I make pictures of my students’ work is simple: The most motivating factor for these students to persevere and care is the fact that they take their projects home as soon as it is finished. They cannot wait to give it away as a present and to see the reaction of the person who receives it. This incentive is very important in the process of setting goals, persevering when things become hard, and taking pride and care in the appearance. I also use these pictures to show my students what they have learned and what they have achieved. With these pictures they need to make a power point presentation to reflect on and show evidence of learning.
This picture album is evidence that all students are able to achieve well in my classes. Most projects are individual projects based on the students’ own choice and their own design. The factor choice and the individual guidance that each student receives are the main motivating factors. These projects reflect knowledge of materials, knowledge of techniques, knowledge of design, an ability to persevere and to complete
Each student had to solve his/her own problems to reach this end product, had to set goals and work independently, I think this artifact shows that my main learning goals (problem solving, and independent working) have been met.
When it comes to teaching styles, I feel that I must have at my
disposal several different ways of teaching, for my students will have
different ways of learning. For example, some students will be strong
listeners, but others will be more visually oriented. There will also
be those who learn by means of discussion, and still others learn best
by doing. As a teacher, my objective is to be as effective as I can
possibly be. Therefore, I devise a diagnostics exercise to determine
their learning styles, and on the basis of that data I plan my lessons
and the assessments thereof.
My commitment to the learning of all students is evident in the following 4 documents:
Lesson plan inclusion
Teaching and Learning in Inclusion Settings
Manufacturing Technology
Metal assignment with grading rubric
The above mentioned documents have been removed and can be found on : www.teacherspayteachers.com Look for Steamteacher
