Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  WI Model Early Learning Standards

    Posted 10-02-2020 09:19 AM
    I am trying to develop a learning experience plan for preschool children using the WMELS format. I need to incorporate at least two developmental domains from WMELS. I have over 17 years of experience working with kiddos but have never had to create anything this evasive. 
    So I am reaching out to everyone in hopes there are some tios or suggestions? How do you only pick one measurable objective? Or can there be more than one? 
    Thanks in advance!

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    Vanessa Tollefson
    Advanced Behavioral Therapy Technician
    WI Early Autism Project
    Sheboygan WI
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  • 2.  RE: WI Model Early Learning Standards

    Posted 10-03-2020 08:07 AM
    Hi Vanessa, this sounds like an assignment that I give my I/T Curriculum students using the Massachusetts standards. Anything you plan is going to naturally offer learning opportunities in multiple domains - it makes sense you're struggling to pick only one! When I was teaching preschoolers I used the domains and assessments to hold myself accountable to paying attention to all areas of development. I realized I was seeing the literacy, art and math aspects of children's explorations easily but missing the science aspects. I recommend choosing a measurable objective that you don't easily see (doesn't mean it's not happening) or don't see as often in order to plan the learning experience. An experience plan like this really serves the purpose of setting an intention to observe for a certain type of development. Of course, I'm sure you know after more than 17 years that children are complex and will engage with a planned experience in ways we sometimes never imagined (one of the most exciting parts of teaching). Just because you chose one measurable objective doesn't mean you have to ignore the other things you see the child exploring or learning! The intention can simply help us focus our observation lens by keeping us accountable to the range of development that is valued by the systems we're a part of. (Now, evaluating those systems is a whole other topic :)  
    I hope this helps!
    -Lauren

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    Lauren Stauble
    Adjunct Faculty
    Bunker Hill Community College
    Weston MA
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  • 3.  RE: WI Model Early Learning Standards

    Posted 10-03-2020 11:49 AM
    Thank you Lauren! This is very informative. I will just need to narrow down the many ideas!

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    Vanessa Tollefson
    Advanced Behavioral Therapy Technician
    WI Early Autism Project
    Sheboygan WI
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  • 4.  RE: WI Model Early Learning Standards

    Posted 10-04-2020 10:47 AM
    You have been given great advice. Yes, think about having one over-riding objective or outcome for your plan but think about and realize that every planned activity reaches into many developmental domains. It is almost like a program running in the background of your computer that is not your main focus.

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    Nora Krieger, PhD
    Associate Professor Emerita/Past Chair NJEEPRE
    Bloomfield College/NJ Educators Exploring the Practices of Reggio Emilia
    Highland Park, NJ
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