Large class sizes, high poverty rates, low family literacy, weak school-family relationships, high student mobility—many schools face these challenges to student achievement. The following categories reflect factors that teachers can affect, and classroom examples illustrate how research-based strategies and technology can make a difference.
Teachers can draw from a range of research-proven strategies to support their English language learners. By helping students develop not only English fluency but also conceptual skills, teachers better prepare all students for academic success. Technology strengthens many strategies.
Student attitude plays a critical role in academic success. Learn which research-based strategies help motivate learners, change negative attitudes, and create positive learning environments. By integrating technologies, teachers can heighten engagement in classroom activities.
Strategies for increasing literacy development focus not only on improving reading skills, but also on developing students' higher-order thinking skills. Teachers who focus on literacy will find effective ways to integrate technology into learning goals.
Parents and other community members play a vital role in shaping students' attitudes toward learning. By facilitating effective communication and connections between school and home, technology offers a powerful tool for creating a successful learning community.
How do teachers meet the needs of diverse learners? Research offers a repertoire of strategies and many point to differentiating instruction. Technology supports classroom strategies by creating new routes to learning, addressing multiple learning styles, and providing forums for individualized feedback.