we are all different

- Fred Spoelstra

One of our members during a Program Committee meeting led in an opening devotional reflecting on Psalm 23. The devotional was presented both by word and through artistic expression. As he spoke he painted a picture of the hand of Christ reaching down to grasp the hand of the apostle Peter after he had lost his courage and trust while walking on the waves. The artistry made the devotional that much more poignant for me.

Research in educational psychology has clearly documented that we learn and we communicate in different ways. This knowledge challenges us as teachers to use different styles and methodologies in our teaching and to allow students various ways in which they are assessed and evaluated. The “one size fits all” means of “doing school” doesn’t do justice to the differences among our students.

The creative and thoughtful use of technology can be very helpful in assisting us in meeting those challenges. In some classes I’ve visited recently I’ve noted our Smart Boards being used in engaging and creative ways. For some assignments, students are given creative options in how they choose to be assessed and evaluated. I’m grateful to observe our teachers continue to grow in creativity and sophistication as they teach lessons and as they assess and evaluate students.