Planning for Student Differences
Have you ever had a Jabber, Integer or Loner in a class you taught? If so, describe one. What teaching strategies did you use with that person that was successful?
I have had a semi-Jabber! She enjoyed reading everything and anything having to do with the subject we were learning. I would often have her research a particular question or area of study so that she could report it to the class. The student's became very interested in what she would uncover.
Lisa, you showed insight into how to reach and teach her in a way that benefited her and your class. Kudos!
Michele Deck
I have had a Loner where I made sure that I went over material and asked them later (not in front of classmates) if they understood everything or had any questions about the material. Generally this works, or if they had a lot of stuff they missed in their tests, I would go over that section again for the whole class. Also, depending on the class or skills used in the class I would try and suggest different websites or youtube videos that would be helpful, possibly some apps.
Michelle, this is a smart and focused approach for a Loner. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Michele Deck
I have had a Loner preiously in lab, and I would do the demonstration as usual. I made an effort not to hover or offer extra guidance unless it was asked for. I find that if I make it clear that I am available if needed,this student worked indepently and apporached me as needed. She performed well.
I have had avJabber I figured out she wanted all the whys so I spent extra time on whys with her others in the class did not need that. I also for sure have a loner who calls me go reassurance but does not like group study and does so much better alone.
cynthia, I'm glad you can recognize the different learners in your class. I hope you have tried the methods for teaching each one suggested in the course.
Michele Deck
I find that my Jabber, needs to feel that he is in charge of something and needs to be a leader so I give him duties of that kind, for example lab lead or having him give instructions to the class on a particular project.
Ashley, it is smart to personalize your assignment to Jabber. A great teacher can make the lesson meld with a students personality.
Michele Deck
Yes, the Loner. This person churned out quality work. So a group setting, I have "allowed" them to work more independently by monitoring their participation levels within their comfort zone, and have encouraged them to participate more within that zone.
Gayle, I appreciate you sharing your successful strategy. Individualizing classroom instruction is the proof of a great educator.
Michele Deck
Yes, I have had a few Loner's in my classes. These are the student's you can give them the syllabus and course outline and let them go. I have noticed that, they do not do well if there is a change in forward motion.
Lisa, thank you for sharing your experience with all of us. Some are puzzled by this type of learner.
Michele Deck
I actually enjoy the loners. I have found that they get frustrated by having to work in groups. They know how they are going to do it, have it all planned out. Other types of learners tend to take advantage of students who are on task.
Shirley, it is a shame that others take advantage of those on task. Thank you for sharing your insight.
Michele Deck
I currently have Loner in class. I find that even though she is extremely intelligent she still looks to me for approval. For example, the other day I handed out a "study guide" for our final exam which was today. She asked me to give her the exact answers and have it worded the way it would be on the exam. I immediately put the accountability back onto Loner. I said no, I would not be able to facilitate that, but if she did the work I would be happy to look at it to ensure she was on the right track. This is also a lab class. Instead of standing directly over her, I give Loner space. I am able to safely watch from a distance without telling her exactly what to do. This allows her to troubleshoot on her own, learn, and retain all aspects of theory.
Amy, it is an adjustment for learners when learning a career. They mistakenly think that all they have to do is learn the material long enough to pass a test, and then it can be forgotten. This is all they have known from previous school experience. Personal responsibility is a new concept in connection to learning to some. Teaching that responsibility is just as important as your review tools. You are doing both in your classes, keep up the good work.
Michele Deck
I currently have a loner. I think because she is the oldest student in the class (50yrs) she prefers to work independently. However I work with her one and one and as a result she realised she is capable of performing at the level of the other students or even higher,although she "has been out of school for 30+years".She has certainly come out her quiet zone and has a lot more confidence
Radha, your successful approach of pairing with her yourself had given her the ability and confidence to succeed. Thank you for that!
Michele Deck
