Dynamic Learning Maps

A dynamic learning map shows a learning landscape in which multiple skills are related to many other skills. Dynamic learning maps not only show the relationships between skills but also show multiple learning pathways. Instead of assuming that all children learn a skill in the same way, allowing for multiple pathways recognizes that there are alternate ways to learn the same skill. By using dynamic learning maps as the basis for assessments, the DLM system will give teachers a clearer view of each student's knowledge.

Oklahoma is currently 1 of 14 states participating in the DLM consortium and has assisted in the development of an alternate assessment aligned to the Common Core Essential Elements (CCEE). This assessment is intended for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities and will replace the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) Portfolio in the content areas of math and English language arts in the 2014-15 school year.

What is a Dynamic Learning Map? (video)   

Learning Map Example (external link)

Link to Dynamic Learning Maps (external link)

Common Core Essential Elements (CCEE) Adoption Memo

DLM First Contact Survey

DLM First Contact Survey Memo

Self-directed Learning Modules

The self-directed module format is an online training which includes interactive activities developed to allow educators to complete trainings individually, at their own pace.

To help educators understand the Common Core State Standards and their application to students with significant cognitive disabilities, the Dynamic Learning Maps consortium has created and will continue to create self-directed learning modules. Each of the interactive modules is short (30-45 minutes on average) focuses on a single topic. When you complete a module, be certain to complete the information regarding your name, school, and state so that you will receive credit where available. If you have questions about these modules, please contact dlm@unc.edu

To access the self-directed learning modules click here.

Facilitated Learning Modules

The facilitated module format provides professional development modules that can be utilized in a hand-on fashion with a facilitator guiding groups of educators through the training. This format will provide a cover page, scripted facilitator guide, handouts, powerpoint presentation, and a video.

Module 1 Common Core

Description: This facilitated module provides an introduction to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics for teachers who work with students with significant cognitive disabilities who will complete the alternate assessment.

Module 2 Common Core Essential Elements

Description: This facilitated module provides an introduction to the Essential Elements that were developed by the Dynamic Learning Maps Consortium to provide links between the Common Core State Standards and grade specific expectations for students with significant cognitive disabilities.

Module 3 Common Core Essential Elements Instructional Achievement Level Descriptors (IALDs)

Description: The Instructional Achievement Level Descriptors were developed to provide an achievement ladder for students with significant cognitive disabilities working toward achievement of the Essential Elements and onward toward greater participation in the grade level CCSS to which the EEs are linked.

Module 4 Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Description: This facilitated module provides an introduction to Universal Design for Learning as it relates to the Common Core State Standards and students with significant cognitive disabilities.

Module 5 Principles of Instruction in English Language Arts

Description: This facilitated module provides an on overview of principles of instruction in English Language Arts in the Common Core and relates them specifically to students with significant cognitive disabilities who will complete the alternate assessment.

Module 6 Standards of Mathematical Practice

Description: This facilitated module provides an on overview of the eight standards of mathematical practice guiding the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics. These are the standards that students with significant cognitive disabilities at all grade levels should be working toward as they learn mathematics and the specific Commnon Core State Standards in mathematics.

Additional Resources

Video of Hunter