How can I direct and facilitate a variety of learning experiences for all

students?

One of the most critical steps a teacher can take in order to be successful and

effective in reaching all of their students is to plan and use a variety of learning

strategies that will target each students learning needs (TPE 4.4). Differentiation

and making modification to certain strategies are used as necessary tools to make

learning a personal experience for each student. Modeling, discovery and

cooperative lessons when directed and facilitated correctly can provide students

with a variety of learning experiences.

Providing students with a variety of learning experiences requires the

teacher to have great classroom management and make the most of time allotted for

each class period. In my physical education class, one of the ways I will provide a

variety of learning experiences is by modeling for the students and have them

observe me as I teach them new movement skills and proper technique when

performing such tasks. I feel this is method is traditionally used in physical

education because it allows for students to observe and learn how new movement

skills look when done correctly. Students then participate and try to perform those

skills, and by monitoring them, I can make sure they perform it successfully.

An important concept to remember when providing students with a variety

of learning experiences, a teacher must consider the kind of environment they want

to create in their class. Create learning environments (traditional, blinded, and

online) that promote productive student learning, encourage positive interactions

among students, reflect diversity and multiple perspectives, and are culturally
responsive (TPE 2.2), is important model to have in the classroom. An environment

where students feel safe to participate and share out ideas and contribute to the

lesson is essential when introducing different learning styles that require more

student involvement and discovery throughout a lesson.

Another method to be used when providing different learning experiences is

to use a discovery as a tool for students to learn about a new activity, its rules and

possible strategies in order to be successful. This method involves the students

more in the learning process; they have the chance to think critically to solve a

problem (TPE 1.5). They ask questions within their groups, create hypothesis or

solutions to make discoveries on their own. Part of what students take away from

this method is the process of how to solve problems, work with others and think

critically about finding a solution. The excitement of making a discovery is what

drives students to participate and ultimately learn. For example, students work

collaboratively and through practice, make discoveries about how to properly strike

a soccer ball to complete a successful pass.

Having students in groups and assigning them each specific roles generates a

new learning style for students. This promotes positive interdependence of students

within a group. Each group member needs to contribute and participate in order for

the group to reach an objective. This kind of cooperative learning allows for the

teacher to strategically plan groups ahead of time and provide differentiation for

those who need it (TPE 3.2). For example, providing EL or special need students

with text that is appropriate to their learning needs while still containing the

information necessary for him/her to contribute for the success of the group.
 Providing students with a variety of learning strategies is essential for their

continued growth to become lifelong learners. Additionally, appropriate facilitation

and implementation of these lesson delivery methods is sure to provide a variety of

learning experiences for students. Furthermore, a successful teacher will know their

students strengths and weakness. Plan lessons accordingly and apply

differentiation and modifications when necessary to reach the individual learning

needs of students to make learning personal for them.

 Reference Page

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC). (2013). California Teaching

Performance Expectations,