In almost any learning environment, sometimes teachers have to get creative with their instruction methods. Actively engaging students is a constantly evolving practice, and educators have to continually adapt to new practices to stay ahead of the game. USD 265 staff adapts to meet students where they are by incorporating innovative techniques. Embracing applications like play-based learning and creating co-teaching atmospheres helps create a caring and connected environment for ALL students. It takes combining all the tools in our collective toolbox to maximize the opportunities for the long-term success of our students.
At Goddard Middle School, Kristi Elias utilizes an online, educational quiz gaming challenge called Gimkit in order to assist students in retaining instruction in a different way. “I have found that first thing in the morning, students typically have lower energy levels - so I use this to help build positive relationships, both inside and outside of the classroom, by inviting building administrators and staff in to play alongside our students,” shared Elias. She uses this several times weekly to make learning more enjoyable by turning traditional quizzes into a competitive gaming experience. While each game is customizable, the objective is to earn points by answering subject-based questions correctly. This can help enhance students' digital citizenship and cognitive critical thinking skills, such as trial and error and creative problem-solving. “The goal is to engage students in a different type of activity, and this is a wonderful resource to help them review content,” shared Elias.
Play-based learning, at all ages, can help encourage curiosity and creativity and help boost metacognitive skills. Elias is one of many special education teachers who works alongside her general education peers to create what is called a co-teaching classroom. She shared some of the positive effects she’s seen so far, “I have received feedback from students saying that it makes them feel seen and heard by more than the special education teacher or para(professional).” This combines students of all abilities, with the teaching role shared by the instructors, creating a far more unified environment. Providing digital alternatives to more traditional instruction techniques can help bring students together to reach a common goal. When asked, Elias shared her admiration for this style of instruction, “I love co-teaching! I see benefits for both students and teachers alike, including getting lots of varied perspectives all in the same, shared space. This really helps us connect as a class.”
When the needs of certain students need to be met in a different fashion, the classroom as a whole might shift instruction methods over from larger group activities to smaller groups or individual study to accommodate everyone and ensure that the needs of ALL students are met. By creating a classroom culture of unity, Elias and her counterparts (Chris LeFevre and Brandi Webb) get to witness the positive impacts each day. “Seeing all of the students benefit from being in an environment of inclusion is something that brings me joy daily,” shared Elias. “From a teaching perspective, I have learned so much from everyone I co-teach with. It creates a truly great environment!”