What is Accessible

Rich exploratory, visual tasks foster opportunities conversations in math class. Clear mental models build the foundation for deeper conversations and foster a class culture where all voices are heard by providing opportunities to take risks and reflecting on beliefs about student ability. Teachers and students can learn the value of engaging with different perspectives. Reflecting on instruction for teachers and learning for students improves retention and understanding. A teacher's role is as facilitator and modeling behavior and communication. Professional development and frameworks are needed to adopt the competencies effectively. Researchers evaluating efficacy of rich tasks and 21st century competencies must reexamine beliefs about ability, consider the impact of societal barriers on student learning, and focus on how instruction can adapt to be more effective for all learners. More research in all of these areas is needed.