Standards-based Instruction

Standards-based Instruction

In my recent travels, I noticed something which intrigued me and caused me to start to think. I know…Dangerous! I continue to hear the rhetoric concerning standards-based instruction. Comments such as “We need to teach children more than simply what is required.” and “My students need to know more than what is on a test.” I concur! However, it would be a huge improvement if the students in trouble did learn what was required and exposed to what will be on the state-mandated assessments.

I started thinking about the term “standards-based instruction”. I think it has become antiquated. I do not believe it continues to carry the power it once had. I think a new term is needed to stir up excitement among educators. I have recently studied the progression of standards throughout the K-12 educational program of several states. There seems to be a huge disconnect between grade-to-grade instruction. While educators seem to understand the particular standards, grade-level expectations, student indicators of instruction, etc…, they are supposed to teach, it appears the educators do not see their particular assignment as a single point on the continuum of the students’ total education.

The topic of “Math Facts” always comes up in discussions with math teachers. Have you ever heard this statement? “They do not know their multiplication or division facts; therefore I spend most of my time teaching my students those essential skills.” Forget the fact I probably don’t even know all my multiplication facts well enough to take a timed test, with an Associates, Bachelors, three Masters and a Ph.D. I couldn’t possibly be successful if I have forgotten what equals 7 x 8. (By the way, I always hated 6 x 9 and 7 x 8!) These math facts should be replicated year after year for memorization. Yet, you should not have to spend 6 weeks on them each year. I know: I’m on the proverbial “soapbox”.

Back to my thoughts…Standards-based Instruction…BORING Title… What could be done to stimulate our senses? What is a word? What about “progressive instruction?” Never mind…I “Googled” it; and Progressive Education is already taken. I have heard the terms “vertical” and “bridging”; and yet, they just do not seem to capture the essence of what I believe an education is supposed to complete for a student. What about Gradient Instruction? Positional Instruction? I guess I will have to think on the topic more. However, I do believe we need to connect the dots in education. We do not have yearly standards that are stand-alones. There are progressive measures in place whether we acknowledge them or not.

You know, when you think about it, learning a phone number is a relatively simple task (such as a math fact). However, if I don’t use a particular number for quite some time, I find myself forgetting it. Think about all the passwords you need for your computer and programs. How many times have you had to reset the password because you forgot? OK. I guess it is just me. The point is students and math facts are a lot like me and my passwords…Out of sight, out of mind. Yet, all I need is a reminder or a pattern in order for me to remember what I chose. Oh yeah, one of those questions!!! OK. Leaving the “math facts” soapbox for good!

I have much to say about the “Universal Screener” soapbox I have recently developed, but that will have to wait until another time…For now, I want a new word! I want to capture the essence of a child’s journey through his or her education. So, I will begin my thinking session now…What about you?

S.B. Odom, Ph.D.