Effective Instruction

Effective instruction of students with disabilities is based upon research validated principles proven to improve learning outcomes for students. Teachers implement principles that improve student engagement in the learning process and optimize student success, particularly in the initial phase of learning. These and other effective teaching principles form the bases of effective instructional practices in schools. A wide array of instructional strategies, rooted in the effective teaching principles, are used to enhance the opportunity for students with disabilities to master challenging academic content and to learn strategies that improve learning potential. Visual organizers, highly structured materials and directions, teaching sequence for simple facts, and sensory-specific activities are some examples of strategies that assist in effective educational design and delivery.

Leaders are responsible for the instructional programs in their schools. A working knowledge of effective teaching principles and instructional strategies is critical for the instructional leader to provide support and professional development to school district personnel. Throughout the year, the Leadership Initiative provides technical assistance and support to assist school leaders in ensuring that their staff is skilled in effective instruction to ensure optimal student learning.