We have already discussed curriculum mapping and how this can help focus your attention, as a teacher, on the full process of learning. There are no blue prints to mapping, but the more you are familiar with your students and their learning goals, preferences and interests, the design of your map will take shape.
This is somewhat of a moving target as each student is different, however, as we have also discussed, the flow emerges from the context of the set standards and outcomes, so it isn't a complete mystery. You are the content expert, as the teacher, and the learning support and guide. The students, however, should be the ones doing the work. Students should be fully empowered to explore all of the resources, as they need, interact with content, you and other students, and push forward towards the outcome however their own understanding takes them. The assessment, then, should also reflect this entire process and provide multiple ways for students to demonstrate:
They should also be empowered to go on learning and applying new knowledge according to the skills and ideas developed in their learning process.
With new and newer technology, student choice can increase and student empowerment can be maximized. In a 2009 article, I wrote:
Focus on future trends rather than current practices. The ultimate result of these kinds of approaches to learning is that we will see students who can move toward future trends and progressive organizations and methods, who can move toward change rather than stagnate within existing practices that may or may not meet the demands or the needs of clients and participants.
Effective instructional planning, uses of new and newer technology and student engagement in their own learning process = a wonderful formula for success!
TIP: The students, not the teacher, should do most of the work!
Coming up next, "How much do I need to know, as a teacher, to do this?" Stay tuned...