Flexibility in instruction is a principle that uses instructional design to accommodate a wide range of abilities among students. Simple and intuitive instruction is a "straightforward and predictable manner" (Shaw, Scott, and McGuire, 2001) of instruction. Perceptible information instruction is an instruction design principle that ensures all information necessary is effectively communicated. Finally, tolerance for error instruction "anticipates variation in individual student learning pace and requisite skills." (Shaw, Scott, and McGuire, 2001)
STRATEGIES to SUPPORT TEACHING DIVERSE LEARNERS in COLLEGE
Strategies to support teaching diverse learners in college that are inclusive of Hispanic students include the following strategies:
Use technology to assist and aid instruction;
Group students into smaller groups to facilitate discussion and communication among students;
Use summarization, self-questioning, clarification and prediction in classroom instruction;
Keep the instruction simple;
Allow instruction to be flexible;
Use the technique of instructional conversation;
Keep instruction 'equitable;
Use perception in the instructional practice;
Allow room for errors so that students feel comfortable while learning;
Create a community of learners.
CONCLUSION
Use of the foregoing instructional strategies will assure the teacher that all students have a fair and equitable opportunity to learn and that the students will be engaged and motivated to learn.
Bibliography
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Padron, Yolanda (2002) Educating Hispanic Students: Effective Instructional Practices. Center for Research on Education, Diversity & Excellence. August 2002.
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Scott, S., McGuire, J., & Shaw, S. (in press). Universal design for instruction: A new paradigm for adult instruction in postsecondary education. Remedial and Special Education.
Scott, S., McGuire, J.M., & Shaw, S. (2001). Principles of universal design for instruction. Storrs, CT: Center on Postsecondary Education and Disability.
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Success and Failure of Hispanic Students
