Getting Smart Podcast | Personalizing Learning Through the Instructional and Technology Integration Model

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Philip Hickman, superintendent of Columbus Municipal School District in Columbus, Mississippi, about the new instructional model that he created, and asked him to share more about it for our podcast.

His K-16 Instructional and Technology Integration Model (K-16 ITI) is an innovative and blended instructional model that recognizes the important role of the teacher, personalizes instruction and leverages technology in the right ways at the right time. Listen in as he explains how the model works and the transformational results he is already witnessing in his district after its implementation.

Listen in as he explains how the model works and the transformational results he is already witnessing in his district from its implementation.

Podcast Highlights

Designed to meet the individual needs of every student, Dr. Hickman describes the model as helping achieve his vision for the district and for others: to help students build the skills necessary to compete in a global society.

This model recognizes the important role of the teacher and follows a gradual release process as students gain independence through the learning process:

• Phase 1 Introduce new learning (teacher-driven, “I do”)
• Phase 2 Guided Practice (group-driven, “We do”)
• Phase 3 Independent Practice (student-driven, “You do”)
• Phase 4 High Impact Centers (project-driven, “4Cs”)

Centers emphasize application of learning through 4 Cs

• Communication
• Collaboration
• Critical Thinking
• Creativity

These phases also provide a framework for “entry points” into instruction that will be customized based on students’ level of understanding on any given topic. Teachers plan for instruction based on what they know about student mastery, then deliver instruction, and constantly monitor, adjust and assess.

By creating a vision and a framework for teachers in Columbus City and beyond, Dr. Hickman creates learning opportunities that authentically engage students and allow them to compete in a global society.

For more, see:

• Getting Smart Podcast | Mississippi District Personalizes Learning for Teachers and Students
• Is Personalized Learning the Answer?
• Teacher To Teacher: My Journey To Personalized Learning

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