When designing a learning material we should always bear in mind the students we teach. If we know their strengths and weaknesses well, and what we want them to learn, we'll be able to create the material they need in order to make progress.
This means that objectives, relevance, and the right level are my main concern. I also make sure that I give clear and concise instructions.
I must admit that I normally pay attention to the design, as well. I like my materials to be visually appealing. (The one I presented here is not, I'm afraid. ;))
Hi Gordana, you're right it's important to know your learners and their needs to get successful outcomes :)
ReplyDeleteThey say that published textbooks are good at following the research but not so good at following the students individual needs.This is a niche that teachers can find themselves in.
ReplyDeleteRhett Burton Exactly. Furthermore, there are certain language points that are particularly difficult for some nations.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you, Jordana! Each student is unique, so we have to take into consideration their needs and capabilities, as well as their interests and personalities. ;)
ReplyDeleteI agree with all that you have said Gordana. The right level of challenge is yet another principle to take into consideration especially in mixed-ability classes. (Lama)
ReplyDeleteThanks Gordon, what you say makes perfect sense. We need to keep in mind that we want our students to make progress. So we need to see where they are are where they need to get to. Being visually pleasing is important but less so than some other principles, I think.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree with you Gordana especially on the fact that material should be designed to cater our students' needs.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your feedback.
ReplyDeleteKatherine Bilsborough Thank you, Katherine. I agree that the visual aspect is not so important. It's not one of the main principles, just something I add in order to increase the motivation of my students who are used to visual stimuli. That's why I mentioned it in the end. The content is what matters most.
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