Jamaica Plain Community Centers
Adult Learning Program
Our mission is to provide "Education, Recreation, and Inspiration across the Generations." Our primary goal is to provide these opportunities in response to our neighborhood's identified needs. Residents of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate in programs and to communicate their interests and concerns with the Council. JPCC seeks to advocate for and educate our community about the resources available to them at our Community Centers.
Routines
Digital Collaboration with Peers Through Video Response and Virtual Bulletin Board Platforms
Jamaica Plain Adult Learning Program
TAGS: #InstructionalRoutine #Collaborative #Flip #Padlet #JPALP
WHAT | Digital Collaboration: Learners will engage in routine digital collaboration in the classroom by using online video response and virtual bulletin board tools such as Flip and Padlet.
WHY | Learner Engagement: This routine is effective because it leads to real-time feedback/collaboration, which increases learner engagement. The more engaged learners are, the more likely they are to complete assignments. Also, because our curriculum includes both problem-based and project-based learning, this enables learners to use multiple platforms to showcase their work and collaborate with peers.
Connected Evidence-Based Strategies | This strategy connects to the following evidence-based strategies:
Authentic Audiences and Purposes–Learners connect with their peers and others to communicate about ideas, solve problems, and exchange learning.
Building Empathy–Learners increase their capacity for empathy by considering viewpoints and experiences that differ from their own.
Case Studies/Case-based Learning–Learners will complete problem-based and project-based tasks that are centered in real-world expectations and experiences.
HOW | Flip or Padlet: Depending on the task, learners will use Flip and/or Padlet to complete project-based and problem-based learning assignments as part of thematic curriculum units (e.g., nutrition, civic engagement). Learners will use the assignment function in Google Classroom to access direct links to Flip and/or Padlet. They will follow the links to leave their own responses and respond to the submissions of their peers.
DIGITAL SKILLS | Implementing this strategy connects to the following digital skill(s):
CO.1: Communicating Effectively: Learners will use technologies to adapt their communication for the appropriate task/purpose/audience. They will also follow set criteria for digital etiquette and citizenship.
Improve Reading Skills Through Online Access to Reading Support Programs
Jamaica Plain Adult Learning Program
TAGS: #InstructionalRoutine #LearningSoftware#Google Classroom #JPALP
WHAT | Access Online Learning Platforms: Learners in hybrid classrooms will access online learning platforms such as ReadWorks and NewsEla to support reading proficiency skill acquisition using Google Classroom and Zoom Chat. At a designated point in each class period, learners will access the online learning platforms to support their identified reading needs. They will also use these platforms for homework assignments–where the platforms are again used to reinforce specific taught reading skills across a variety of genres.
WHY | Predictable Classroom Structure: This routine allows for a predictable classroom structure, is easy to use, fosters learner engagement, and can be continued outside of the classroom setting. As part of the reading routine, learners will study new vocabulary, use digital annotating/note taking skills, and have opportunities to discuss their reading with peers in small groups. Teachers will find these tools easy to integrate with technologies already in use such as Google Classroom, Zoom, and Google Slides.
Connected research-based strategies | Identify at least one research-based strategy that connects to the routine.
HOW | Google Classroom: We will use Google Classroom to implement this routine. Learners will access the texts using both a classroom code and direct link posted to Google Classroom. In addition, instructions will be posted to the daily slides used by teachers during instruction. Finally, more support will be offered via tools like the chat in Zoom, as we are a program that uses remote, hybrid, and blended instruction. Learners will be taught how to utilize each mode of access and how to locate and complete assignments.
DIGITAL SKILLS | Implementing this strategy connects to the following digital skill(s):
LL.2: Lifelong Learning (Adapt to New Technology): Learners will use technologies that they may not have complete familiarity with to continue their studies.
Prompts to support learners:
“Please check Google Classroom and the daily lesson slides to access your reading/homework assignments.” (This prompt allows for ownership of the learning process and ability to manage information independently.)
“How can practicing reading skills via a digital platform help you further your long-term goals? What aspects of the digital tools are most useful to you? Where are you still struggling, and how can we use the digital tools to better support your needs?” (These prompts encourage reflection on the learning process and how digital support might help learners reach their learning goals.)
Improving and Reinforcing Literacy and/or Numeracy Skills Through Online Tutoring
Jamaica Plain Adult Learning Program
TAGS: #InstructionalRoutine #LearningManagementSystem #LearningSoftware #GoogleClassroom #KhanAcademy #JPALP
WHAT | Access online tutoring: Learners will access online tutoring/instruction assignments for self-paced modules on a platform such as Khan Academy as part of ELA and Math HiSet preparation using the Google Classroom Assignments function and get instructor feedback via the Google Classroom Comments function.
WHY | Increase instructional time: This routine is effective because it is customized, engaging, on-demand, and each tutorial is brief, allowing busy adult learners to easily incorporate this tool into their schedules. When this routine is implemented, learners will also receive increased direct instruction during class because more in-class time is available to address individual needs, as teachers will be available to meet with individual or small groups of learners while others work on self-paced modules. This ensures that learners can access support for their specific learning targets. Using these modules, learners will actively participate in addressing their own instructional needs/learning gaps. Finally, because the routine is competency-driven, learners can take as much time as necessary to master skills, regardless of what their peers are working on.
Connected Evidence-Based Strategies | This strategy connects to the following evidence-based strategies:
HOW | Google Classroom/Khan Academy: Learners will identify which Khan Academy modules to complete via the assignments function in Google Classroom. Module assignments will be learner-specific and target their individual needs. Learners will access feedback on assignments via the comments function in Google Classroom, ensuring they access support in areas of need and know when they are ready to move to another skill. In class, learners will complete individualized modules that are assigned based on data from placement tests and classroom assessments/observations. Learners will also complete modules assigned to the entire class to reinforce skills taught during whole-group instruction. In addition, this tool will be used for reinforcement and self-study outside of class as learners will have the ability to watch the modules as many times as necessary and can use them for instructional support even when class is not in session.
DIGITAL SKILLS | Implementing this strategy connects to the following digital skill(s):
IS.1: Use and Apply Information
LL.1: Find Learning Resources: Learners will utilize the tutoring modules to further their learning process inside and outside of the classroom setting. They will take ownership of the learning process and can use the skills acquired during the routine in a myriad of subjects throughout their lifetimes.