After completing the online session five and all of the homework, please return to this post and answer the Essential Question for Session Five by posting a COMMENT to this blog entry.
Why does teaching with 4MAT call for multiple forms of assessment?
Teaching with 4MAT calls for multiple forms of assessment because by definition it is a an open-ended learning model. This makes it a very effective method for broadening their delivery of instruction, and it specifically encompasses strategies that appeal to the diverse approaches students have to learning. It breaks us out of the traditional lecture approach and causes us to have to find creative ways to differentiate learning and apply whole brain concepts to our delivery. If we respect diversity we will enjoy incorporating multi-sensory components along with multiple learning styles because we know that these methods boost overall learning and retention. We will learn to value active learning processes and strategies as well as the more reflective modes of teaching. 4MAT takes into account that while students favor different places on the cycle according to their styles, they all need to go through the four major steps while learning.
ReplyDeleteI love what Wanda said. When I first saw all the places where I needed to assess, I had a panic moment... how was I going to fit all that in? I do see though that not assessing in each of quadrants of the cycle devalues that quadrant. This leads me to two thoughts...
ReplyDeleteFirst, in my "teaching philosophy" in my syllabus, I mention that we'll do papers, quizzes, participation, homework, etc. in the class because some people aren't good at tests or are stronger at communicating their understanding through papers or in class discussions. By using a variety of assessment methods it ensures that everyone can show off their understanding.
Looking at assessment in this class has made me realize that assessment at each quadrant is vital because it lets me see the student's connection and performance throughout the cycle, not just at the end. If a student doesn't connect in that first quadrant or has trouble extending, then I need to address that as it happens so the student can take the most away from the lesson.
And sorry I didn't respond faster-- the workbook must have been stuck in my spam filter and I missed seeing it. Very sorry about that!
Lora