Optimizing Student Learning

Optimizing student learning is another identified theme in the data. Interviewees stated that most students come from different parts of the world, which means that English is used as a second language in the teaching and learning process. Therefore, some participants

have considered the application of UDL as an appropriate means of optimizing student learning. One participant pointed out that, “providing resources, such as technology, allowing students to use their devices to interact with the information, providing them with options to demonstrate their learning, can be good example to facilitate student learning.” It was recognized that those teachers who utilize interactivity in their instruction tend to generate substantial success over time in terms of student engagement and interest in the subjects being taught.

Another leader stated the following, “I try to provide students with the support needed. I also try to provide teachers with the support they need to deliver a differentiated lesson.” In analyzing this answer, it appears that the participant has given equal attention to the needs of students and teachers. This illustrates an example of leadership that considers a range of factors that might shape the teaching and learning process. This leads to the notion that the process of optimizing student learning is multifaceted, and this was echoed by several participants. Yet achieving positive results is linked with teachers’ preparedness for each lesson. One teacher pointed out the ways in which student learning can be facilitated in an international school environment,

There are many things a teacher can do, such as using different manipulatives, especially in math. Also, an experimental way of learning can be implemented in certain classes like in science and social studies. And when we consider implementing technology in the classroom, using tools such as Google Classroom can facilitate both teaching and learning. Using the internet can certainly facilitate learning. Also, an important factor that should not be forgotten is using the local culture and language of the international school to make it relevant and authentic to students.

As emphasized in the observations of this teacher, students need to find the materials relevant to their lives. This can motivate them to pursue higher goals in education. It appears that

student learning can be optimized through technology since a substantial amount of the materials used by teachers are technology-based. In the process of improving student learning, teachers also need external help. In this context, one participant pointed out at the importance of “having more teaching assistants available to guide in the instruction.” UDL required significant planning – more than traditional teaching strategies. The addition of teaching assistants was perceived as enabling more students to be engaged in the content and appropriately guided how to resolve complex learning problems. UDL anticipates a

combination of different teaching strategies in addressing the learning needs of different students.

Some participants claimed that an optimal way to facilitate student learning would be to utilize an efficient learning platform. For example, one teacher said, “Google Classroom is a good platform to start with but a more versatile platform to support a UDL driven school would be Moodle.” In addition, this participant pointed out that teachers should consider the use of assistants in case more complex concepts need to be clarified to students.

One school leader pointed out that the opportunities to optimize student learning through the UDL framework are limitless. This school leader indicated that,

Today’s students learn new information in diverse ways depending on the type of learning preferences and styles being adopted. It is our responsibility as leaders and educators to foster a solid sense of learning so that students can demonstrate sufficient engagement in the classroom.

A similar point was related student motivation, which plays an important role to helping individuals learn new information and in applying it to their lives. In other words, the route to optimizing student learning was identified as diversifying learning opportunities and making them more relevant to students’ lives. Some participants mentioned that some

always support teachers and guide them to introduce a wide range of tasks for students. I am focused on optimizing resources and demands in order to achieve the initially stated

curriculum objectives.” In addition, he noted that it is important to provide students with opportunities to optimize their choice and autonomy during the learning process.

Some participants were confident that the use of the UDL framework in the classroom can optimize student learning significantly. One school leader pointed out, “I am supportive of teachers who are enthusiastic to implement the UDL framework. Therefore, I constantly communicate with them, helping them understand the importance of minimizing distractions as an integral part of the process of optimizing student learning.” In this context, it should be noted that most school leaders have discussed the relevance of providing regular, formative feedback to students. Such progress-oriented feedback enables students to further develop their strengths and work on improving their weaknesses during the learning process.