Module 14 Discussion: What Has Changed?

In reviewing the article from 1995, I have seen many changes in what is seen as "good teaching" for all students, and more specifically for ELLs. In the 1990's many of the teaching practices used were much more student-centered and involved a higher level of student engagement and interaction. Critical thinking was promoted as was divergent thinking. Later we moved into a period of drill and test where the memorization of facts and scripted curricula were being used. These were often referred to as being "teacher-proof" as the role of the teacher was to recite the script from the text and move the students forward using strict pacing guides. Today I still see some of this instruction taking place but I am also heartened to see that we are making moves toward more student engagement and collaborative learning practices that value student input.