Blog Post #3
4. Consider the learning environment for your current design. What potential barriers can be reduced or eliminate to provide more pathways for learner success?
When designing a learning resource on British Columbia’s native trees, we want to ensure that every learner can participate and succeed. Our project introduces elementary students to common species like Douglas-fir, Western red cedar, and Garry Oak, helping them understand and appreciate the natural environment around them. One of the main activities from our Blueprint assignment is a nature walk, where students observe and sketch different types of trees in their local area. This hands-on approach encourages curiosity and allows learners to practice identifying features such as leaves, bark, and cones. However, we recognize that this may present barriers if some learners lack access to safe green spaces or face mobility challenges.
To address these issues, we plan to offer alternative or virtual options. For example, we can use online photo collections, short videos, or tools like Google Earth to showcase various tree species and habitats. This ensures that students who cannot participate in an in-person walk still have meaningful opportunities to observe and learn. According to the Right to Education resource from Inclusive Education Canada, education providers must identify and address barriers to learning, making it essential to offer flexible solutions that accommodate all students.
Beyond the nature walk, we believe that flexibility is key to supporting diverse learners. Instead of relying on one type of assignment, we include choices such as writing a journal, creating a slideshow, or completing an online quiz. This range of formats allows students to showcase their knowledge in ways that align with their strengths and personal circumstances.
By proactively reducing barriers – like access to nature, technology, or different learning preferences – we’re creating a more inclusive experience for everyone involved. Our goal is for each student to gain a deeper appreciation for BC’s forests and develop the skills needed to explore, enjoy, and protect the natural world in their own communities.
Blog post URL: katenelsonstudies.opened.ca/blog-post-3-2/
Hi Kate!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on reducing barriers to learning success while learning about common species of trees in British Columbia. I can imagine how engaging a nature walk would be to many young learners. At the same time, you are right that some learners might not be able to do a walk due to access or mobility challenges. I also wonder if these same trees would be in all areas of B.C. The alternative accesses to information you describe seem like good options. I particularly like the virtual walk, which would allow students to still observe leaves and cones in the context of a larger environment and give students some control over their point of view, allowing them to turn leaves over, etc.
Along with providing options for access to content, you have created choices for building and demonstrating knowledge. Thank you for sharing your thoughtful design. I enjoyed reading about it.
https://learntech.opened.ca/peer-response-kate-nelsons-blog-post-3/
Your response effectively identifies potential barriers to learning and presents thoughtful solutions to ensure all students can participate meaningfully. By offering virtual alternatives to the nature walk, you address challenges related to mobility and access to green spaces, making the experience more inclusive. Additionally, providing multiple assignment formats recognizes diverse learning preferences and strengths, allowing students to engage in ways that suit them best. Your approach aligns well with inclusive education principles by proactively reducing barriers related to accessibility, technology, and learning styles. To further enhance inclusivity, you might also consider incorporating assistive technologies or differentiated instruction strategies to support students with additional needs. Overall, your commitment to flexibility and accessibility helps create a learning environment where every student can succeed.