Among the many alternative methods of teaching, the Co-teaching method, Distance learning, inquiry-based learning, Unschooling, and Unstructured play a large role in educational reform. The main objective of these approaches is to engage students and to maximize student participation.
Co-teaching
Many benefits of co-teaching are similar to those of traditional teacher-student relationships. Co-teachers can build better relationships with their students, provide additional support and divide the workload. They can also improve their own teaching techniques and can provide a diverse classroom atmosphere. In addition, co-teaching can help students with disabilities learn the general education curriculum, while still receiving specialized instruction.
Parallel and station teaching are two forms of co-teaching that involve splitting up the class into smaller groups and providing more individualized attention. In this type of teaching, two teachers work on different tasks while monitoring the progress of each group. Station teaching, meanwhile, divides the content into smaller groups and repeats the same instruction to a second group. In this type of co-teaching, one teacher takes one group while the other provides specialized instruction to a second.
This method is popular in schools because of its ability to improve student performance. In addition to lowering student behavior problems, co-teaching involves two licensed and certified teachers. Co-teachers can use six different instructional models, such as station teaching and co-teaching. Another common method of co-teaching involves a blended classroom that can accommodate a variety of student levels. However, one important drawback to co-teaching is that the co-teachers can’t observe each other’s teaching, and they can’t teach each other’s students.
Distance learning
Distant learning is an alternative method of instruction for certain courses or degree programs. Some distance learning modalities can be used for specific courses, such as training in hazardous materials handling. For example, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences has developed an online Right to Know computer network to teach hazardous materials handling. The United Auto Workers has also demonstrated how they can use distance learning for their education. Both types of distance education use a variety of technologies, and the results can be very similar.
The guidelines recognize exceptional circumstances when providing services. Students with disabilities can receive educational benefit from distance learning when specific supports and accommodations are provided for them. To evaluate promising practices, the CDE will convene a special education workgroup that will identify models for serving students with disabilities in a distance learning environment. Specific strategies are already being implemented in many schools throughout the country. Further, the guidelines will assist in developing distance learning materials. By examining best practices and available resources, schools and districts will be able to choose the right course for students.
Inquiry-based learning
Inquiry-based learning has many advantages over traditional teaching methods. Rather than dictating how a student should study a subject, teachers put the student at the center of the learning process and encourage him or her to explore and think for themselves. Ideally, teachers should choose learning activities that build students’ critical thinking skills and information-processing skills. This way, they will become more familiar with the kinds of learning habits students display.
The main purpose of inquiry-based learning is to develop the student’s analytical, synthesis, and evaluation skills. It also involves exploring the world around them using primary sources such as CD-ROMs and the World Wide Web. Students learn to create arguments based on sound evidence and explain how evidence fits into their answer. Inquiry-based learning also addresses differences in learning styles. Instead of teaching information, students explore knowledge by asking questions, making decisions, and making connections.
Unschooling
Unlike traditional schooling, unschooling does not require a set schedule or curriculum. Instead, unschooling families look for learning opportunities in everyday life and encourage their children to pursue their passions. Activities may include books, videos, experiments, internships, or hands-on activities. Ultimately, these activities will lead to a broader understanding of a subject, while helping children learn new skills in the process.
One of the best parts of unschooling is that it is not structured like traditional schooling. Parents simply put out educational materials and let their child find them. In this way, they stimulate the child’s interest in learning and are more likely to enjoy the experience. However, it is important to remember that unschooling is not for every family or child. Some parents prefer unschooling, while others prefer classical education or the Charlotte Mason method.