Blogs

02.04.23'

K-12 Education

Do students with autism learn differently than other students?

We have to believe that every student with Autism or without, is special and has his own strengths and weaknesses points.

Although teachers feel that they should treat students with autism differently, it is more accurate that all students are different and that everyone should be reached differently.

To initiate an inclusive educational environment, teachers’ first mission is to identify every student’s access point through which they can reach him.

Adopting Arts Integration as a teaching approach at your school, brings focus to the whole child and embraces the notion that all students are different. Arts Integration engages students and offers a variety of ways to construct and demonstrate understanding. It helps teachers rethink the roles they play and their relationships with their students.

Referring to the multiple theory of intelligence by Howard Gardner, every intelligence has the potential to be mobilized for the arts.

Recognizing and making use of the different types of intelligence exhibited by students of the same class, allow teachers to forge natural alignments and connections between the core content areas and the different art forms and reach every student to achieve the academic learning outcome. 

Art in all its forms Visual, Music, Dance, Theater, and Multimedia Arts, being a way to communicate with others is possibly the perfect interpersonal activity, and being an expression of self is possibly the perfect intrapersonal activity.

Imagine in your classroom, you succeed to connect students with autism to themselves and to others through experiencing the creation of an artwork as a personal and authentic experience they can share with their peers.

Arts Integration delivers a measurable transformation!

25.03.23'

K-12 Education

Are CPD Courses Worth It?

In a rapidly evolving world, with the proliferation of accessible information, learners in our modern era have the ability to collect knowledge and comprehend any topic from their curriculum without the direct guidance of their teachers. However, let's pause for a moment and envision this scenario.

Imagine an adolescent student absorbing new information without undergoing assessments for correct comprehension and application. This unmonitored acquisition might inflate their ego and cultivate resistance toward accepting new information, especially if it contradicts their initial understanding. Picture the effort required from a teacher to rectify the initial misinformation, instill accurate learning, maintain respect and acceptance, and ensure each student comprehends the subject matter.

For this very reason, teachers need to continuously monitor and self-assess their roles and performance within their classrooms. They must nurture their relationships with students, striving to reach every student and leave no one behind. Teachers should embrace honesty regarding areas that require improvement and proactively seek opportunities for Continuous Professional Development to enhance their careers.

Understanding Continuous Professional Development

Continuous Professional Development encompasses ongoing learning and skill development that professionals, especially teachers, engage in to stay updated with the latest advancements, methodologies, and best practices in their respective fields. This ensures they maintain high standards of teaching, positively impacting student learning experiences.

The Benefits of CPD for Teachers

1- Enhanced Teaching Skills and Techniques:

CPD offers teachers the chance to explore new teaching methodologies, technological advancements, and innovative approaches to engage students effectively. This leads to more efficient classroom management and improved student outcomes.

2- Keeping Abreast of Evolving Curricula:

The educational landscape is continually evolving, with updated curricula and changing educational standards. Engaging in CPD allows teachers to align their teaching strategies with these changes, ensuring they provide relevant and up-to-date information to their students.

3- Adaptation to Technological Advancements:

Technology plays a significant role in education today. Online CPD courses often cover the integration of technology into teaching, enabling educators to utilize various tools and platforms to enhance the learning experience for their students.

4- Professional Networking and Collaboration:

CPD events and courses provide opportunities for teachers to network, share experiences, and collaborate with peers. This fosters a sense of community and enables the exchange of ideas and best practices, further enriching the teaching profession.

5- Personal and Career Growth:

Engaging in such programs shows commitment to professional growth and improvement. It can open doors to career advancements, promotions, and leadership opportunities within the educational sector.

Conclusion

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is not just a box to check; it is a vital element in the journey of a teacher. It equips educators with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the evolving educational landscape, ensuring they provide the best learning experience for their students. Investing in CPD is an investment in one's own professional growth and, ultimately, in the future of education. So, the answer to whether CPD courses are worth it is a resounding yes!

Are you ready to take the leap into a future of continuous learning and growth?

For more insights about this topic, please visit CPD explained.