Implementation Overview
of Course Development
The instructional design approach for this course is grounded in Merrill’s Principles of Instruction (MPI), which emphasizes meaningful learning through task-based experiences. In the Teacher Instructional Plan, I incorporated MPI's five core principles—Demonstration, Application, Activation, Integration, and Engagement—to guide the course structure. These principles are clearly integrated into the instructional plan, ensuring that students engage with the material in a way that promotes active learning and real-world application.
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The course, titled La Escuela (The School), introduces students to essential vocabulary related to school life and helps them acquire the language skills necessary to express concerns or address issues they may face in an academic environment. Students will also learn how to identify the appropriate people within the school to approach for assistance. This alignment of outcomes, activities, and assessment ensures that learners achieve both practical language proficiency and a deeper understanding of their school environment.
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I plan to use both Google Classroom as the course’s Learning Management System (LMS) to facilitate the course. This platform is well-suited for middle school students and offers a user-friendly experience that allows for easy navigation and access to course materials. Google Classroom, in particular, offers a familiar and streamlined interface for students, which enhances their learning experience. Additionally, the course will utilize an online textbook from Voces Digital called Mundo I, which integrates seamlessly with Google Classroom. However, for the purposes of this assignment, I was unable to demonstrate how assignments from Mundo I appear in Google Classroom, as the Google Classroom used for this course is not linked to my school’s LMS.
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The course will begin with a "Start Here" section, where students will find a slide deck providing a comprehensive overview of the course. This includes essential information such as instructor details, course expectations, curriculum framework, class schedule, office hours, tutorials, and links to course documents like the syllabus. This introduction is designed to ensure both students and parents are fully informed about what to expect throughout the course.
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I have created a visually engaging and age-appropriate slide deck to introduce the course, which serves not only as a resource for students but also helps parents understand the expectations and content of the course. This slide deck, along with videos and additional resources, will ensure that both students and parents are prepared for the journey ahead.
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The first two modules have already been uploaded to Google Classroom. Each module includes its respective slide deck and supplementary activities. Instructors are supported by a detailed Teacher Instructional Plan that provides a day-by-day guide for effectively teaching the content of each module, ensuring that the course runs smoothly from the start.
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Media plays a key role in this course, with the use of slide decks to present vocabulary and videos to reinforce learning. This multimedia approach is particularly beneficial for visual learners, ensuring that students remain engaged and able to grasp the content more effectively.
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The main course goals and outcomes are clearly outlined in the course documents, which are easily accessible through the overview slide deck shared with the students.
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The course adopts a blended learning model that transitions from a teacher-led approach to a more student-centered one. Initially, the instructor will take on the role of presenter and facilitator, but as the course progresses, students will be encouraged to take greater ownership of their learning through independent tasks and active participation. The goal is to cultivate a student centered environment, enabling students to take control of their educational journey.
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The course is structured as a blended learning environment, combining face-to-face instruction with an online curriculum. This hybrid model allows students to benefit from the personal interaction of classroom learning while leveraging the flexibility and resources available through digital platforms.
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Given the technological limitations at my school, such as slow internet and occasional equipment malfunctions, I have adapted the lessons to minimize dependence on technology during times of technical difficulty. Additionally, I offer in-class support to help students navigate any user errors, ensuring that they remain engaged with the course material.
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To build the learning community and introduce myself to the students, I have developed a dedicated course website. This platform showcases our work in Spanish, including student projects, resources, and updates. The website fosters a sense of community and collaboration, while also serving as a hub for our learning journey throughout the course. Spanish Class Website
Syllabus
References:
American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Membership.
(2021a, May 18). World readiness standards overview. YouTube.
World Readiness Standards Overview
Athuraliya, A. (2023a, January 5). Top 7 instructional design models to create
effective learning material -. Creately Blog. https://creately.com/blog/education/instructional-design-models-process/
Harapnuik, D. (2018, June 19). Outcome-based Education vs Competency-based
Education. Outcome-based Education vs Competency-based Education
Harapnuik, D. (2020c, December 24). Assessment as Learning. YouTube.
Harapnuik, D. (2021b, September 19). EDLD 5318 Deeper Learning.
Kurt, Dr. S. (2022b, April 9). Merrill’s principles of instruction. Education Library.
https://educationlibrary.org/merrills-principles-of-instruction/