Audio-Tutorial Approach

I like the concept of the A-T approach. There are so many different competency levels and learning styles in a classroom that this method would lend to greater success for all students. Also, it increases student accountability which I think needs to be a bigger focus than a final assessment.
All to often, I feel that the teacher is scrutinized when some students don't succeed and on the other hand some students do very well. This method would allow the individualized instruction for the students who may not be getting the help that they require. In a lecture format, it is not clear who has got it until the assessment and typically after the assessment, it is time to move on to new material. Unless the student is willing to stay after school, there is really no time for review and recovery.

I look forward to developing this module to see what impact it can have on my student success. I believe self-paced independent study can be ideal for any student as long as they know they have the necessary support which this system provides through ISS and SAS.

I have always believed self paced instruction to be more successful than lecture and discussion formats. I have used both in my classroom and found that my students who are 9th - 12th grade on a block schedule don't have the attention span or the interest to be lectured to for 90 minutes. I am currently using a software program called AES in the computer application classes. This system is set up in modules which assesses the students on each portion as they complete a new objective. It also presents multimedia intstruction and has the capability to allow the students to request visual tips to show them whereto go to complete a task. My classes have varied levels of competencies so that higher level students are not held back while the lower level student can replay a lesson or ask for individual instruction from me.

Business Education courses rely heavily on competency based achievement and self pacing is a great way for students to continue to be successful in this curriculum. I have wanted to increase the level of access to my course via the Internet for some years so that students can continue the work at home and have not found the time or adequate resource to do so. I wanted to create videos and lessons for students who are absent or even homebound in an effort to keep the course consistent and to enhance rigor and relevance. Simulations is one of the best resources that I like to use in my classroom because it gives the students real world application and allows them to ask questions based on actual scenarios.

Welcome Spring?

Just to reflect on the beginning of this semester, I feel overwhelmed and nervous. I am closing out a semester at my high school and starting these classes. My psyche is conflicted. Is this a new beginning or closing of a chapter?