Diversity


 * The diversities in the classroom consist of second-language learners, different learning styles, different background experiences, cultural differences, focus and comprehension difficulties with print materials, and learners without access to technology in the home. Technology plays a significant role in planning to meet the needs of diverse learners because it provides tutorials, mind tools, and support for communication. Adaptions made to the PBL instructional unit include resources from the Universal Design for Learning website.

Adaptations include the utilization of tools for text-to-speech, speech-to-text, voice recording, graphic organizers, images, language translations, and audio books. Some of the adaptations are applicable to multiple diversities in the classroom such as voice recording, text-to-speech, audio books, and language translation for second-language learners, auditory learners, and learners with difficulties focusing and comprehending print materials. Auditory learners will benefit from tools such as Vocaroo, for voice recording and Voki, an avatar with options for text-to-speech or voice recording.

Kinesthetic learners have the option of creating tangible representations of their work such as a 3D model. In addition, learners have the option of choosing how they wish to deliver their solutions to the problem, such as through art form. Teacher demonstrations of possible tools learners will use for their activities, and discussions among the groups will address the different background experiences. Learners with cultural differences will have opportunities to share their personal experiences and expand on their experiences as they collaborate with peers. For learners without access to technology in the home, they will have the option of using technology in the school during their regular class meeting time, during lunch time, during a study period, before the official start of the school day, or after school. In addition, students will also have the option of using technology provided at public libraries. || . Voice Recording []

Text-to-Speech / Speech-to-Text Natural Reader (includes language translations) []

Speech-to-Text []

Audio Books [] [] (print disabilities)