In conversations around equity, we often see the image above used as a metaphor to describe how it is different from equality. As educators, we know that every student is unique and their needs diverse. This image depicts that when we provide the same supports to each learner regardless of their unique needs, only some will be able to see over the fence to access learning. We can abstract that while a one-size-fits-all (equal) system of education helps some students access learning, it leaves some without, causing inequities to grow. However, when we provide supports consistent with their needs (equity) every student is able to access learning.

As Michigan embarked on the creation of their ESSA plan, they listened to Michigan educators who recognized the need to break away from traditional one-size-fits-all education to create more equitable outcomes for students. This is  reflected in the creation of MDE’s Top 10 in 10 Goals and Strategies and the MI Roadmap in which personalized learning is highlighted as a means to a more equitable educational system.

The term personalized learning addresses providing each learner with the supports they need in order to learn. While it can feel complicated or daunting to think about personalizing learning for each student, it’s important to know that most teachers already use elements of personalized learning in their classroom. EdSurge translated the work of  iNACOL, a leader in the realm of personalized learning into five key elements.

Five Key Elements of Personalized Learning

Learner Profiles

Capturing the individual skills, gaps, strengths, weaknesses, interests, and aspirations of each student. Knowing each student through a combination of assessments, surveys, and relationships built inside and outside of the classroom.

​Personal Learning Paths

Creating an individual pathway for each student, based on his or her unique learner profile. Each student has their own learning goals and objectives. Learning experiences are diverse and matched to the individual needs of students.​

​Student Agency

Students have some control over how they learn. With the help of their teachers, they are involved in designing their own learning process. They are given ownership in how to demonstrate their learning through performance-based assessments.

​Flexible Learning Environments

Student needs drive the design of the learning environment and learning experience. The teacher uses multiple approaches in learning experiences that are responsive and adaptive to student needs.

​Competency-Based Progression​

​Continually assess student progress against clearly defined standards and goals. Students advance (generally at their own pace) based on demonstrated mastery of these learning targets.

Learn More at PLCON 2019

The Personalized Learning Conference (PLCON) is an event for educators with any level of personalized learning experience. Join us on May 7, 2019 to learn about personalized learning from regional leaders while experiencing the five elements of personalized learning as a learner.

PLCON also includes an optional two days of site visits to local schools doing great things with personalized learning. You can join us on May 6 to explore the work being done at Kenowa Hills Public Schools and/or May 8 to check out Kent Innovation High. Watch the plcon.org website for registration details on these optional visits.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the PLCON experience. Click here to register now at plcon.org

 

This blog post was written by Keith Tramper, Educational Technology Consultant for Kent ISD and edited by Amanda Walma, Professional Learning Coordinator at Kent ISD.

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1 "Maximizing Competency Education and Blended ... - Competency Works." http://www.competencyworks.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/CompetencyWorks-Maximizing-Competency-Education-and-Blended-Learning.pdf. Accessed 14 Jan. 2019.
2 "Five Key Elements of Personalized Learning | EdSurge News." 1 Apr. 2015, https://www.edsurge.com/news/2015-04-01-five-key-elements-of-personalized-learning. Accessed 14 Jan. 2019.