Week 5 Reflection

 

During Week 5 of ELEC 316, we talked about learning objectives and the importance and value of using them in the early childhood setting. Learning objectives are statements that describe what the student should be able to do and/or accomplish after instruction. These objectives address criteria according to state standards and should aim to be student centered, actionable, and measurable. For example, a learning objective may state, “Students will be able to judge if the teacher correctly ordered a list of five fractions, with a partner, at 90% accuracy.” Learning objectives are essential for planning lessons, administering assessments, and creating activities.

A useful tool to use when writing effective learning objectives is the ABCD formula. A stands for the audience and focuses on the targeted group of people (e.g., students, learners). B stands for the behavior and describes what the audience will be able to do following instruction. C stands for the conditions and describes resources and/or limitations for the audience when performing the behavior. D stands for the degree and focuses on the level of mastery (e.g., accuracy, quality). The ABCD formula is a helpful guideline in creating meaningful and impactful learning objectives. Teachers should consider if their objectives align with the ABCD formula in hopes to include a thorough and complete way to measure their students.

In addition to instruction, the class heard from Ms. Wagner regarding assessments, grading, accommodations, and advice. From her talk, what stuck out to me the most was her creative ideas for assessment accommodations. She spoke on making use of quiet offices, timers, small group read alouds, and friendly fonts and layouts. It was inspiring to hear how even the smallest accommodation, like providing a portfolio divider, can make a big difference in the learning of young students.