Multiplier Effect

I know with various technological advancements, it is very tempting to be wishful on having the most advanced instructional media and materials in your classroom. By having these kinds of instructional tools may seem very effective for learners. However, the role of educators in facilitating teaching and learning includes identifying what kind of instructional media materials and resources will best address the learners’ development. In a classroom of more than ten learners, the educator’s role is more challenging with different types of learners and instructional media materials to consider. It is not about utilizing one or two instructional media resources for all, educators must look for multiple ways to engage the learners either inside or outside the classroom. 

Aside from choosing the appropriate instructional media materials for different types of learners in the class, educators must also balance the available resources and what is needed for the learners holistic development. Holistic approach includes taking into consideration all aspects – intellectual, physical, emotional and social development of the learners. Development of gross motor skills will require the use of video clips as instructional media resources instead of printed text. For social development, reading aloud with the class is more appropriate than video read aloud clips.

During my daughter’s preschool experience in Minnesota USA, her classroom uses different types of instructional media and technology. The classroom has what the preschoolers called “magic board” as it is like a big digital screen where students can write their names and can easily be erased. An LCD projector is also being used for some read aloud books. The magic board though very useful can provide that same experience for the preschooler using white board. The read aloud book reading shown on the LCD caught the attention of the learners but for my daughter who is very social, found it more engaging when she reads with a grade 3 student during one of the school’s activities. Knowledge of the learners, their style and developmental needs are integral in determining what instructional media tools to use to deliver rich educational experience. Providing educational experience doesn’t need to cost much, conventional resources can be used in innovative ways to improve learner engagement. 

It is also through the different types of instructional media and technology that can address the different needs of the learners. As an aspiring educator, I can provide multiple learning resources to accommodate and extend learning  by using the different instructional media resources. By engaging with what my learners’ needs are, I can provide engaging instructional resources that will address their needs holistically either in the classroom or at their own pace.