Task Force Recommendations; Discussion Points #2 and #3

Choose two of the following to discuss:

     The article Toward Universal Learning, discussed many different task force recommendations.  The first task force I would like to focus on is recommendation one, a global paradigm shift.  This task force suggests  "a shift in global focus and investment from universal access to access plus learning." This task force recommendation discusses how learning should provide students with an equality of both connection and knowledge. Not only should we provide students with the ability to access this information on a global level but also allow access with a deeper connection to the information they seek. 

     

     Looking at this recommendation, I remember an assignment I was given in elementary school.  We were required to provide a family tree.  The family tree must provide examples of where you family originated from as well as pictures.  Making this a starting point, I showcased pictures of myself and what I liked to do with my family. Based on this task force recommendation, why not take it a step further? Why not provide food from my various cultural backgrounds? A tangible item might make the project more meaningful to students.  It could have the ability to connect with learners in those parts of the world my family extends from. Now, not only can a learner showcase who they are but they can connect on a deeper, more globally connected meaning.

     The second task for I would like to discuss is recommendations two, learning competencies. This level discusses the seven domains of learning as seen below. 

Image CC from the Toward Universal Learning article

This task force recommendation, allows our systems to provide students with the essential knowledge they will need for their future.   The competencies are broken down into various age groups as well learning settings and therefore can be designed to the needed of the individual students. Looking at the spectrum of learning across the various age groups, one can then develop a lesson and curriculum around the needs of each student.  The task force recommendation provides teachers with the information they need to help the students and it also provides the students with areas of need.  I believe this task force has more of a connection to the Common Core State Standards. Not only do we need to provide our students with accurate information but we are also requiring them to obtain and apply the information with modern day learning.