My toolbelt is designed for a hypothetical student with ADHD who is in the regular stream of an ADST (Applied Design, Skills and Technology) class. As outlined in UDL theory the strategies described here can often enrich the class as a whole.
- Mind Mapping to illustrate how ideas relate– mind42 (can be collaborative) MindMup, Spiderscibe
- Multimedia – students can make videos using Screencastify which is part of Google Suite. They can also make videos which can be incorporated into Powerpoint.
- Having a digital calendar with a reminder function. Visual reminders of work that needs to be completed. This can be incorporated into Google Classroom.
- In a traditional class setting an effective strategy is having the student sit closer to the front of the class. In a remote learning situation this would mean the teacher having more contact with the student and their supports virtually. Google classroom, teams meetings, and calling on the phone can be effectively used.
- Students need clearly established rules and routines to which they are held accountable. In class these need to be written out and referred to. The same methods can be used in remote learning, but again, students and families are largely responsible. The relationship with the student becomes paramount in having students on board. I am looking for an application which can assist with this. Perhaps some kind of checklist for the student.
- Active participation in class needs to be encouraged. I have listed concrete ideas for this which can be used in a regular classroom include and have followed by how this can be adapted to using technology:
- students answering on a dry erase board – answering on wiki
- choral response – use of Kahoots or something similar
- thumbs up or down – use of Google forms
- paired learning
- group work
- These need to be adapted to the virtual learning environment.
- Hands on learning – ADST classes fit this need and therefore need to be more tailored to this student profile. Students can share learning via Freshgrade, Nimbus.
- Nimbus – Ask students to use Nimbus to prepare videos showing work. Students will find it gratifying to make videos and see themselves on screen!
- Freshgrade – to create an eportfolio – this will serve the purpose of allowing students to share work with parents. This platform is used in SD68.
- As assignments are posted on Google Classroom they can be prioritized. Not all students will be expected to complete all.
- Through Google Classroom and Microsoft teams assignments can be revisited as needed. They can be in written or video format.
- Mindfulness techniques can be taught to the class in mini lessons and having all students on board with this is a positive way to encourage a calm classroom environment in a subject area which lends itself to a somewhat chaotic environment.!