When teaching computer in school how can you cater for differentiation between students?

Question

When teaching computer in school how can you cater for differentiation between students?

Answer 1

Today it is difficult to tailor the curriculum to individual students, but that doesn't mean you can't teach for differentiation in your computer class. Because each student has their own computer (making an assumption here - ideally that would be nice) you can almost control the level at which they are learning.

Most of all, you need to present your lessons in different formats or ways - by showing on an LCD perhaps, by explaining verbally, by handing out printouts (yes, I know, admin doesn't like you using ALL that paper - makes you wonder about the support you get for education, doesn' it??)  I'm sure you will figure out a way.

Present your lessons for the average student - then, start to add more indepth instruction. Your high students will get it. Your lower students will need more detailed instruction in the average area. That is when you introduce that level of instruction. Give out handouts to all students.

This should help somewhat, but it is not the answer to all levels of teaching computers. The good thing is you can see what your students are doing just by walking around and help those who need it. Try to get to all those lower students first. The average and above average will take off on their own.

The main thing is to be passionate about what you teach. If you get to ONE student, you will have been successful. You will not see results immediately. You may not see results for another 3 or 4 years! But it will happen. Keep doing what you are doing.

Good luck! You sound like a good and caring teacher!

Answer 2

verbal instruction

written instruction

diagrammatic instruction - a flow diagram might help or a list

difficulty of task

pacing- different activities from the same objective- give them a choice board of their interest with rubrics.

how do the students  produce their outcomes? all the same way?

Answer 3

Give more attention to the different ones. More treatment, more punishments and rewards. Present new materials in different ways one at a time. To initiate the students' weaknesses start the day using different techniques.

Hope you get all the best

Answer 4

Don't try a structured class where everyone follows you at the same time.  Do a little example, and leave plenty of time for them to work individually.  That way, the advanced students can move ahead and not be stuck waiting for you and the slower students and you can focus on the students who need more help.