Sharing is Caring

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Image result for activoteWhen we first geared up for our TLLP in the spring, Deb and I were fortunate enough to attend the TLLP conference, where we networked with a number of colleagues. One of the people we found we had a lot in common with, in terms of project interests, was Vipin, a teacher at Bloorview School Authority in Toronto. This week, Deb and I visited Vipin's classroom to chat about TLLP progress and to see how his project is already benefiting the learning  and engagement of his students. After a tour of the school (which is an AMAZING facility), we had an opportunity to share updates from our own TLLP and to discuss some of the challenges as well as breakthroughs, we have encountered along our TLLP journey. Following this, we sat in on Vipin's circle with his kindergarten class, so we could see his project in action! Vipin's TLLP focuses on the use of ActiVote, a student response system and its potential to increase participation and engagement in students with disabilities.



Using the Promethean ActiVote, students are able to answer multiple choice questions that address various concepts being taught. Using this tool, Vipin has observed that students with a range of ability levels are better able to participate and demonstrate their learning. Deb and I were astounded to see the level of focus and attention of these 4-5 year old students while utilizing this low tech device!

Although the focus of our TLLP  today was more about sharing and collaborating than on actual project work, Deb and I agreed how beneficial and inspiring it was for us to observe a colleague with a mandate similar to our own and to discuss both setbacks as well as pleasant surprises during our project. It seemed there was a general consensus that the TIME afforded to us by the TLLP funding is essential to the success of these projects. As educators working with such a range of student needs, we often find that even the most accessible tools and programs need to be tweaked or refined in order to truly benefit all students. Deb and I discussed the value of using our TLLP funding to facilitate the release time needed in order to produce adapted activities and lessons and to become proficient in our use of programs and software.

Overall, our visit to Bloorview was a very positive experience. It was nice to leave our own little school island and see some of the amazing things happening with other section 68 schools. It was also reassuring to collaborate and talk with colleagues who demonstrate such dedication to supporting students with exceptionalities. We look forward to Vipin visiting our school in the spring, to repay the favour :)

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