A diverse learning environment benefits everyone, but it can put overwhelming pressure on an unprepared teacher. Produced by Illinois State University's renowned College of Education and School of Communication, this two-part series empowers educators using real-world teaching methods - enabling them to overcome the obstacles and maximize the rewards of a diverse learning atmosphere.
The programs are 13 and 18 minutes each. English-language subtitled. Available in DVD format only. 2005. Can purchase each program separately for $79.95; $159.90 for the two-part series.

• Communicating Social Support
  Beginning teachers often don't anticipate the challenges that high-needs students present. This video provides supportive strategies that boost the success of special needs learners.
  Exploring verbal and nonverbal communication through immediacy behaviors, the program shows how teachers can reduce the psychological distance between themselves and challenged students, with tangible benefits in student performance.
  The power of humor, praise, inclusiveness, listening to student feedback, and other strategies are discussed, as well as self-awareness points like speech tempo, tone of voice, and body language. 13 minutes.
  
• Balancing Learning Standards With Diverse Learning Needs
  If diversity and special needs are prominent factors in a learning environment, teachers may have to juggle mandated standards with students' personal challenges. This video addresses that balancing act, demonstrating how experienced educators have mastered it.
  Focusing on multi-level instructional planning, the program explores the use of educational channels, individualized support, and interpersonal engagement - showing how to deliver lessons and assess student progress based on communication style, learning preference, and other variables.
  An extensive bonus interview with Dr. Diane Ashby, Dean of Illinois State University's College of Education, is included. 18 minutes.