Module 2

This module has helped me think about using standards, CFQs, or formative assessment in the following ways:

1. Without unit plans, instructors tend to focus on class activities that may not address standards
2. Unit planning focuses the learning on the standards that are integrated thematically
3.  Lesson plans aligned with the unit are connected and spiral instruction, so that learners have multiple opportunities to develop and apply what they have learned
4. Without unit plans, students and instructors can become frustrated because they may see the intended progress but have a hard time achieving results
5. The objectives and results in a unit plan help the instructor express to the students what they will know and be able to do in a specific period of time.

Module 1 Reflection

This module has made me think about my role as an instructional designer in the following ways:

It has become apparent that when students work with various projects, they experience a direct encounter with the subject matter and this new perspective brings those learning activities to the forefront. Through this type of learning, students are motivated to complete tasks, as well as retain more information.  It is acknowledged that the teacher’s role as instructional designer becomes significant. This is a different role for teachers than what most of us are accustomed. It’s not a weakened role but it does underscore a distinctive skill set and it alters the perspective of the teacher.

Hard Solid Thinking

Rarely do we find men who willingly engage in hard, solid thinking. There is an almost universal quest for easy answers and half-baked solutions. Nothing pains some people more than having to think.
Martin Luther King, Jr.