Literacy & Diversity IssuesThe issues related to literacy and student diversity are complex. One unfortunate aspect of a lack of literacy skills is what is called the "Matthew Effect", where students who struggle tend to fall further and further behind, while those students who have foundational reading skills tend to move further and further ahead. (See http://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/features/the-matthew-effect-what-is-it-and-how-can-you-avoid-it-in-your-classroom/) With this literacy issue in mind, the below terms are introduced:
|
At Risk StudentsAt risk students are those who are at risk of either failing or dropping out of school. Many of these students are at risk because they see the Matthew Effect upon their own academic progress, whether it is caused by truancy, drugs/ alcohol, neglect, or other problems. At risk students need support from all sides of the community.
|
Gifted & TalentedThose students who are gifted and talented are considered to have unusually high levels of talent or academic ability, as compared to their peers, especially in language arts, math, or fine arts. The Coppell ISD has an excellent webpage devoted to GT student education: http://www.coppellisd.com/domain/2903
|
Learning/ Communication DisabledThis is a broad category of students who have one thing in common: a disability that either affects the way they learn, or a disability that prevents them from communicating effectively. Learning disabilities can range from dyslexia (words or letters becoming scrambled/jumbled) to problems with language or auditory processing. Students who have autism or certain brain injuries, are considered to have communication disabillities.
|
Student SchemasStudents have a variety of schemas that they use in learning. Schemas, loosely defined, are those ideas and life experiences that each of us carry with us. They help guide us in making sense of the world around us. Research has proven that the richer the schemas (life experiences) we have, the easier it is for us to learn deeply about new things. Typically, students with limited experiences also have a more limited depth of knowledge.
|