Managing Learners at Different Skill Levels

Classes often include students with a wide range of computer science knowledge. Some may just be starting out, while others may enjoy coding in their spare time! This article explains how to manage a class with both beginning and advanced learners.

Last updated - July 11, 2023

Skill Struck’s lesson plans are based on a track system that offers flexibility. Teachers have the ability to lock classes, monitor student progress, and determine how far students can go. There are also extra challenges available at the end of each lesson for students who are progressing quickly and need more to do.  For those students who breeze through the lessons and challenges, try creating an "Advanced Learners" section. This option allows only those students with more knowledge and experience in computer science to access Skill Struck's more advanced courses.

Start by creating a new section

1. From your Teacher Portal click on the Manage Sections icon. 
2. Click on the + Add Section button on the right side of the screen.
3. The Add Section window will open. Choose a section name, (for example, 3rd Period Advanced) by typing it into the Section Name box. Choose Voyage from the Coding Platform drop-down menu.
4. Use the Toggle Settings section to customize settings for this section. More information will appear about each setting by hovering over the information icon.
5. Input the start date and end date for the section by typing them into their respective boxes.
6. Click on the Grade Level drop-down menu to choose which grade will be taught in this section.
7. When you are done, click the Save button.
   

   Adding Students

   1. Once you have created a  new section the next step is to add your advanced students! Look at your list of sections. Find the section you just created and click the + Add button.
   2. A window will open allowing you to add all of your students at once! Add in the student usernames or emails (one per line or separated by commas,) for those students who should be a part of this section.
   3. Click the Add Students button to add all students listed to the section. Note that students who have not yet created an account will be "Pending" until they log in for the first time.

Managing the Curriculum

After you have created a new section and added your advanced learners, the next step is to manage the curriculum.

1. To access the Manage Curriculum section, click on the Manage Curriculum icon on the Teacher Portal homepage or drop-down menu.
2. Once you are in the Manage Curriculum section choose the section you created for your advanced students from the Section drop-down menu in the top left corner, under the Curriculum title.
3. Select the courses that you would like your students to have access to. Courses/units/lessons that appear with a red lock next to them are locked, and your students will not be able to view or work on them. Items that appear with a grey lock next to them are unlocked.
4. In the top right corner, under the Save all changes button is a drop-down menu labeled Required Challenges per Lesson. This menu allows you to specify how many challenges your students must complete in each lesson. Choose a higher number for this advanced section!
5. When you are done managing your curriculum, click on the Save all changes button.
6. Your section is now ready for your advanced learners!