Standard 3: Plan for and implement effective teaching and learning

Standard 3.4

Select and use resources

Standard 3.4 addresses the need for teachers to be able to select and use appropriate resources that engage students in their learning.

It furthermore refers to the requirement of teachers to understand and remain vigilant in providing students with access to digital resources within the classroom learning environment. As practicing teachers it is crucial that we provide our students with clear explanations and directions when using digital resources.

Just as we educate students when researching primary and secondary sources, it is important to consider the reliability and validity of digital resources used in the classroom. Some sources are more useful than others and students can be made aware of how to determine this through looking at the origins of the sources, whether it is biased, from a professional organisation etc. Many school libraries have excellent resources for helping students search for valid and reliable information online. For example:

http://www.noodletools.com/debbie/literacies/information/5locate/adviceengine.html

I have consistently consulted with library staff in order to access the most useful and appropriate digital and non-digital resources to enhance the learning experience of students:

Using digital resources

A comment from my mentor teacher in Stage 2 Psychology:

 “Ruth’s ability to find relevant and engaging resources to enhance her presentations was outstanding”

Providing students undertaking the Research Project with the skills and tools to locate valid and reliable resources is imperative. Working with students undertaking the Research Project I was able to successfully facilitate their learning in selecting and using resources effectively.