Choose one of the innovative instructional approaches and explain how it seeks to improve student learning

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

ANSWER: Answers will vary, but should include elements of the following: Interdisciplinary teaching: Students become aware of the interrelatedness of disciplines and see learning and school as a coherent unit rather than fragmented pieces. Student learning is enhanced because students are hearing the same message in different subjects; in this way their knowledge is reinforced. Cooperative learning: Students see learning as a social process and appreciate the abilities of their peers. Students take charge of their own learning and have greater motivation to do well. Individual accountability ensures that all members of the group participate. Critical thinking and problem solving: Students learn to evaluate the worth of ideas before making a decision. The focus on critically evaluating ideas helps make students better thinkers. Students appreciate their own learning strategies. Writing across the curriculum: Students come to see writing as a tool for learning, not as a skill to be mastered. Through writing, students can learn more in the disciplines, focusing on expanding their knowledge. Differentiated instruction: Because of the broad diversity among students, more than one instructional approach should be used to address diverse learning styles and needs. Block scheduling: Students save time through a smaller number of passing periods and teacher attendance taking, and other such details. This structure also allows for more flexibility in instructional methods and activities.