Personalised learning: what was once a buzzword is now a major player in the modern classroom. Matching content and delivery to a student’s specific learning style and competence level not only helps raise attainment but also keeps pupils engaged. So how can educators better customise their lesson delivery while juggling curriculum targets, marking, and keeping things progressing for the group as a whole? The answer lies in edtech.
Technology in the classroom can have so many benefits beyond collaboration and presentation. The more edtech available in the classroom, from front-of-class interactive flat panels to personal devices and cameras, the better we may assess students’ needs as they arise in real-time.
Accessing the situation
No longer must teachers call on individual students in class or wait to mark submitted work to evaluate their progress. Digital lesson delivery platforms such as ActivInspire and cloud-based ClassFlow offer polling features that give teachers access to students’ comprehension levels as they learn. Teachers can then segment the class accordingly to give focused, relevant, immediate attention.
These polls can add a degree of privacy for students who may fear judgement from their peers in the traditional ‘hands-up’ style of formative assessments. Data can then be gathered and stored for future access when needed, allowing for progress to be easily tracked over time.
Results can also be shared with parents instantaneously to aid in at-home support. By opening the line of communications beyond the parent-teacher night or report card, families can see how their child is progressing and provide support as needed.
Flexibility that fits
Speaking of hybrid, though students learn best in a classroom, we now know we can’t take this setting for granted. The personalised classroom going forward will include technology that assists learning from home for those who need it, whilst simultaneously allowing for classroom presenting. Multiple cameras and personal devices connecting to a front-of-class display will aid teachers to keep all students engaged, wherever they may be.
Adaptability when it comes to learning spaces is also an important factor when it comes to personalisation. Rooms designed for adaptability between group or individual exercises will help teachers adapt activities to the needs of students. Flexible furniture such as convertible standing to seating desks can allow for brain breaks through physical movement, keeping engagement levels high by avoiding fixation and overstimulation.
Personalised learning spaces will increasingly be defined by the edtech available to teachers and students. For students with varying needs, teachers today have a wide range of resources at hand to give students immediate, relevant attention, to help ensure high levels of attainment for the class as a whole.
We know everyone learns differently. For help with developing your edtech knowledge and skills, check out our Learn Promethean portal where you can access online courses, training videos, and articles. Access the portal here.