Abstract:

This qualitative study evaluates how instruction is delivered within the classroom to at-risk students with discipline problems.

Findings show an attention deficit among students who use computers to complete classwork. The Chromebook browser preferences distract students, who tend to visit other sites. Then, students are lured into doing other things with the technology that takes them away from their assignments. This study used participant observation and teacher survey data at a secondary education program in the Northeastern U.S.A. The study results indicate that the students use technology in the classroom, but some go to other sites instead of where they are supposed to complete work. Teachers use teaching strategies that barter with students to do the work while the teacher sits with them, one student at a time, and give them undivided attention and personalized learning to get them to do the assigned work. The data interpretation in this study shows some indication of completed work by some students but that the work is different from the grade level standard of meeting benchmarks or curriculum competency indicators. The discussion describes a framework offering strategies for teachers to provide assessments, rubrics, and individualized, personalized plans for academic goals with each student. Is there a relationship between teacher agency and using evidence-based positive behavior strategies to address behavior in schools? How can teachers help students achieve grade levels be engaged by using technology to bridge the gap? Is there a relationship between student agency and the effective use of learning technologies to bridge the gap in learning?

Personalized learning plans could be a fluid instrument providing scaffolded activities and the needed instruction to meet students where they are and help them succeed. School leaders must enforce policies and hold everyone accountable for providing each student with a rigorous, personalized learning plan that can be modified and adjusted to ensure student success. Schools must revisit their vision and mission to establish a thorough learning culture and gain staff buy-in to meet the goals and priorities to ensure compliance.

Keywords:

AI Learning Technologies, School Management, Student Agency, At-Risk, Compliance.