-
Identify one or two ways you can, as Dr. Black says, “build a structure [in your classroom] that also has a level of flexibility.”
-
You can do this by having a certain structure (order or way of doing things) in your classroom while also giving students options in regard to due dates, assessments, types of in-course activities, etc. I really enjoy giving students assessments where they are required to demonstrate certain standards while also giving them the freedom to express their individual creativity. This works really well in my middle school computer course.
I also like to start off the year with a survey of what kind of activities students would like to see throughout the year as well as what their own learning type/style is. This helps me tailor-make assessments, activities, and even my teaching methods to the students I have in each specific course.
-
Open-ended lab activities in which the student can branch off and explore related concepts as they are discovered.
-
Perhaps leaving the option for students to channel their creativity to show their understanding in various forms but still give an outline of what will be assessed.
-
I like to give different activities and have the materials out in the classroom so the students can choose which activity or center to reenforce what we are learning.
-
I try to allow courses to set test dates. Many have multiple tests on one day. Some want a review while others feel it is a waste of time. I try to listen and many times we vote on what day they will take the test.