"A teacher who is attempting to teach without inspiring the pupil with a desire to learn is hammering on cold iron." ~Horace Mann

Models, Methods, Strategies

This week in class we focused on models,strategies and methods.  There was certainly a lot of information and new concepts to take in.  However, after our class on Wednesday my understanding got clearer.  During class we divided into small peer groups to discuss and our understandings and this helped me a lot.  I understand that models are broad instructional practices for example the behavioral model, strategies are more specific (for example direct instruction) and methods create the appropriate atmosphere of the chosen  model and strategy.

You have to decide what model fits best for you as a teacher, your students and your particular situation.
Every student that enters your classroom is a unique individual that has different experiences, different interests, different abilities, etc. No two students are ever exactly alike. Therefore, a teacher has the very important task of modifying and adapting learning to teach students at the highest level.


The reading stated that, " Effective teachers do not use the same set of practices for every lesson . . . Instead, what effective teachers do is constantly reflect about their work, observe whether students are learning or not, and, then adjust their practice accordingly." This is very important. An effective teacher is always making adjustments to meet the needs of his or her class that changes from year to year, subject to subject. A teacher must make the decision as to what the most effective model, method and strategies are to employ in his or her particular circumstance in order to make learning a custom fitted experience for students.
 
Models are the broadest level of instructional practices. Models are used to format and select methods and strategies. The learning process stems from the model that is chosen. Within each model are several strategies that a teacher can employ to achieve objectives. Methods are set the stage for the learning that will occur. Methods create the appropriate learning environment. Particular methods are associated with strategies chosen by the teacher. I found the triangle diagram very helpful in understanding models, methods and strategies.