Memorandum
To: Donna
Shea, Instructor
From:
Date:
Subject: WR4 Learning Styles: Assessment and Accommodation
After taking both the ELSIE test and the Multiple Intelligence Test and reading the results I agree with most of it. The ELSIE test told me that my learning style is a combination of visualization and activity, where the written and listening scores were lower. As I reflect on my learning/education experience I can see how my learning style has been, and still is, a more “hands on” process. I like to see or be shown how something is done and then do it.
The Multiple Intelligence Test came back with similar results as well. “Bodily-Kinesthetic - the ability to use the body and tools to take effective action or to construct or repair, to build rapport to console and persuade, and to support others, to plan strategically or to critique the actions of the body, to appreciate the aesthetics of the body and to use those values to create new forms of expression. Possible vocations that use the bodily-kinesthetic intelligence include mechanic, trainer, contractor, craftsperson, tool and dye maker, coach, counselor, salesperson, sports analyst, professional athlete, dance critic, sculptor, choreographer, actor, dancer or puppeteer.” Taking these test have been interesting and fun. Knowing my strengths and weaknesses will enable me to become more flexible and dynamic.
The subject area I teach and the target population would be considered by some to be Special Ed. This is due to the fact that my students have a long history of substance abuse which has caused some brain damage to occur. I recently attended a workshop/lecture sponsored by UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Program(http://www.uclaisap.org/)with Thomas Freese, PhD and Beth Rutkowski, MPH as the presenters on the topic of “Methamphetamine: New Knowledge and Effective Treatment Approaches”. During the presentation I was intrigued about the parts of the brain that are effected from abusing methamphetamine and other drugs of abuse(see below). The part of the brain that is effected the least is the part that allows one to learn from visualization (hey maybe that’s why I learn best with this method J). So it was suggested that those who teach/counsel in the field of addiction may want to use more materials such as handouts, videos/DVD’s, diagrams and other things that would impact them visually. I do use materials and lessons that have a lot of visual components but after learning this new information I will be focusing more on what is most effective for this population.
After reading the articles required for this assignment, attending the workshop method above and reflecting on my teaching approach I am able to see what works best and what doesn’t work so well. Knowing that my target population have poor listening skills is no surprise. But seeing the new information and data that reflects how drug addicts learn best will definitely enhance my ability to reach more students in a variety of ways using the visualization and activity methods