Standard 1 - Teaching Diverse Students – The competent teacher understands the diverse characteristics and abilities of each student and how individuals develop and learn within the context of their social, economic, cultural, linguistic, and academic experiences. The teacher uses these experiences to create instructional opportunities that maximize student learning.

Artifact

This artifact was about ADHD in an elementary school setting. One paper I wrote described the characteristics and causes of ADHD, while the other detailed various teaching strategies for ADHD students. The Slideshow demonstrates three different methods for keeping students with ADHD engaged in the classroom by creating a positive learning environment that encourages participation and healthy movement.

Connection to the IPTS standard

These articles and this project allowed me to research several websites and videos that helped enlighten my ideas about ADHD. As indicator 1B indicates, competent teachers "understand how each student builds knowledge, acquires skills and develops the capacity to think critically and solve problems effectively and efficiently." By participating in this descriptive ADHD artifact I can provide my diverse learners with the most appropriate techniques; I note that every student learns differently and deserves plans and support resources to help them succeed. In addition, "capable teachers understand how to identify individual needs and how to locate and access technology services and resources to meet those needs." I can teach my students and provide them with all the support tools and resources to help them achieve their goals with this teaching skill. Indicator 1A describes proficient teachers "who understand the diverse range of students (e.g., race and ethnicity socio-economic status special education gifted English language learners) (ELL) sexual orientation gender identity) and the strengths of each student ring to the learning throughout the program. By getting to know and understand my students, I know that they learn differently and can achieve their goals properly. In addition, I applaud and celebrate the abilities of each student as they enter my classroom, allowing them to express their learning style.

Description of what was learned

Participating in this artifact contributed to improve my perspectives beyond my teaching emphasis. I had the freedom to explore various organizations, websites, videos, and books that taught me a great deal of information about ADHD. I believe I now have a better understanding of this disability and am prepared to work with future ADHD students. I am strong in the teaching strategies I intend to use with my students; various techniques that I hope will encourage my students while reminding them that, regardless of individual disabilities, they are equal to their peers. I intend to continue learning more about ADHD as I move forwards through my teaching career.