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Being different is what is beautiful about life. Being
different makes things interesting. Sometimes being different can
make things difficult. Sometimes having a different learning style
can make success in the classroom difficult. In Wicomico County we
believe that all children can learn. Our teachers work tirelessly to
meet the needs of all learners. For years teachers have made
modifications and accommodations to lessons in order to meet the needs |
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the students. Now, teachers are learning new ways to reach all the
different learning styles that come into our classrooms.
Technology adds a whole different dimension to differentiated
instruction. One can look at technology as a means of
differentiating instruction to meet the needs of the various learning
styles. One can also look at technology as another subject area that
needs to be differentiated in order to allow students to learn about
it. How many of us had difficulty learning about some new piece of
technology when it was first introduced? Learning styles need to be
taken into consideration when using the technology just as they do when
teaching any other subject area. We cannot view technology solely
as a means of differentiation, we must also look at it as subject matter
that may need to
be differentiated. Just as we need to alter our teaching approach to consider the needs of
all students, the way in which we use |
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also be varied. If the only way a computer is used instructionally is as
a word processor, only a portion of the students are learning in the way
that they learn best. Also, we should keep in mind that in some cases a
technology based lesson may not be the most appropriate method of
teaching. The following is a list of different learning styles and
ways to utilize technology to capitalize on the individual learning
styles. |
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Using Technology as a Tool to Differentiate:
 | Linguistic: One easy
way to incorporate the use of computers is to utilize word processing
programs. These can help teach language, writing, editing, and
rewriting skills.
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| Logical-Mathematical: Drill
and practice type programs give experience in a variety of areas
in math and are useful for reaching this learning style. To help students
explore and organize data and information, teachers can use database
programs such as Access or Excel. |
| Intrapersonal: One of
the most important benefits of computer aided instruction is that it
allows students to work at their own pace. |
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| Spatial: Graphics
programs can help develop spatial perceptions and help develop
creativity by allowing students to create their own designs. There are
programs that help students visualize mathematical concepts. |
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| Musical: To gain attention or interest, there are many
programs that use music. Some programs help students write or play music. |
| Bodily-Kinesthetic: Allowing students to use the keyboard,
mouse, joystick and other devices provides these students with
the opportunity to capitalize on their eye-hand coordination.
Working on a computer
requires students to be actively involved in their learning. |
| Interpersonal: Sometimes teachers complain because there is
not enough technology to go around. With this style of learner
that is not a problem, but an asset. Teachers can put
students into small groups to work on one computer. This
will reinforce skills such as cooperation and
communication. |
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| The internet provides a huge array of information on
differentiating instruction. If you are looking for more information
on differentiating your instruction be sure to check out these links. |
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