c.
Adapting the Resources for Different Learners or Work
This
part of the case study follows on from what has just been said
about evaluation of resources. If a piece of software, a spreadsheet
or a dedicated piece of courseware can be used for more than one
group of learners or across more than one area of work, it follows
that it is more valuable to you in your work.
In
the case study, the teacher found the computer useful for her
students studying for Level Three Key Skills, but also for other
(younger) groups with whom she wanted to introduce to algebra.
Students were given all the numbers including the answer and needed
to insert the operator. eg. 2?3 =6 or (6+2)?2 = 4,
As
students become increasingly skilled she could increase the complexity
of the task to include multiple operators (12?3)?2=8.
These
sessions may be played out as a game until students become familiar
with the rules of algebra. She also took advantage of GCSE IT
students who created the spreadsheet templates as part of their
coursework.
The
Business Studies tutor approached the teacher and explained that
she wanted students to carry out a breakeven analysis. It was
suggested that this could be covered by the Application of Number
tutor.
In
your case the spreadsheet has a range of applications beyond this
case study. It uses a variety of functions and facilities such
as Microsoft Map. In your consideration of the question of adaptation,
you should think of only using subject specific scenarios that
are integrated into the students main subject(s) - this will make
the exercise more relevant to the student and optimise their opportunity
to learn. Most of the time when you use an ICT resource - say,
in the use of a spreadsheet or a dedicated piece of courseware
- you will find that you have to bend it a little to make it more
widely useful.
There are many ways that the tutor can introduce other elements
of the key skills qualification into the case study. Students
who are encouraged to create spreadsheet templates for use by
other students may be assessed for IT Key Skills. It also provides
opportunities for students to be assessed for the key skills of:
Improve Own Learning and Performance and Problem Solving.
With
this in mind, think about how you would complete the grid on the
following page, and discuss it with your mentor.
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