Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact

Rationale/Reflection
InTASC Standard 8 Instructional Strategies
The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to
encourage learners to develop deep understanding of content areas and
their connections, and to build skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways
(Council of Chief State School Officers, 2011).
Brief Description of Evidence:
Completed Fall 2014, The Exceptional Child
This artifact is a service learning project I completed this semester in a
group of four. We chose two standards of a curriculum that will be used to
train adults with special needs who will work in a hotel being built in
downtown Muncie. We described and highlighted the proper use of
cleaning products. We also created housekeeping schedules.

Analysis of What I Learned:

I gained a new level of understanding about the importance of addressing
the needs of diverse learners. Through differentiated instruction the goals
of all students are more likely to be met. I recognized that the methodology
I used while planning content delivery for adults can also be applied to
children. I also improved my communication skills during group work.
How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the
InTASC Standard:
While completing this project, I had to consider that trainees would have a variety
of special needs. These could include differences such as someone using a
wheelchair, being vision or hearing impaired, linguistically challenged, cognitively
limited, etc. In order to make our content accessible to the greatest number of
individuals, we presented it through several modes of communication. All text is
clear and concise. Picture instructions and schedules are included. Descriptions and
proper use directions are included in Braille and video formats. After considering a
multitude of learning needs in the construction of this project, I am more prepared
to address the unique needs of my future students. I will build on these ideas when
tailoring each of my students least restrictive environments.