Whether it’s our first year of teaching or our thirtieth, every teacher knows that our learners are as diverse as individuality itself. Everyone understands similar concepts in a myriad of different ways, some more subtle than others. In order to address the needs of all our students, teachers may need to take different approaches.

As shown on my Professional Standards 3 page, the notes that I give to each student can vary wildly. Many would simply get the standard “fill-in-the-blank” type notes, with the corresponding words emboldened and underlined in the relevant presentation. While a good start, I’ve discovered even more ways to better include all learners in the educational process.

One thing I’ve learned from my coaching teachers is to have large fonts in Powerpoint lectures no matter what – no smaller than 40-point. That way, regardless of most classroom sizes, even those in the back will be able to see the information and take relevant notes. Another consideration I have needed to take is the placement of audio speakers in the classroom and adjust volume accordingly. I have no wish to deafen my students, but I also need to make sure everyone can hear if I put on a video. That is to say nothing of my hearing impaired students, so turning on subtitles when available is always welcome for all. Even if it isn’t strictly necessary, sometimes loud or distracted classrooms will necessitate it.

An illustration demonstrating the differences in approaches to education. The ideal would be liberation, but aiming for equity is my current goal.

Other approaches I have needed to do include:

  • Larger print notes (again shown in Professional Standard 3)
  • Assembling work for students who are away for whatever reason
  • Submitting work to the LA room to be done later
  • Having students step out to go to speech therapy during class and catching them up later
  • Teaching students how to read via UFLI
  • Letting students sleep, knowing it might be the only chance they have to do so
  • Letting students come late, as they may need to stop by another room to grab breakfast since they have nothing at home
  • Some others I’m certain I’ve missed

A classroom can already be intimidating enough without added barriers to learning. It is part of a teacher’s duty to remove as many of those barriers for as many students as possible, thereby allowing them to do their best at their academic endeavours.