Reflection

Fink’s Three Column Table and Understanding by Design Template are both very useful when lesson planning and creating a supportive learning environment.They both offer something unique depending on our needs like better alignment and deeper understanding. Fink’s Three Column Table is straightforward with just three columns: the learning goals, assessments, and learning activities. I could clearly see how each part of my lesson connected. What I like the most is how it goes beyond content and encourages me to think about what kind of learners I want my students to become. For example, am I helping them care about the subject? Am I showing them how to keep learning even after they leave my class? The UbD Template on the other hand has challenged me to start with the big picture. Planning backward felt different at first, but once I got the hang of it, I saw how powerful and beneficial it was. It is very beneficial when mapping out the whole unit and making sure that everything ties back to the main objective or purpose. The UbD Template made me think more intentionally about why I teach certain things and how students will apply their knowledge in real life.

 

Both the Understanding by Design Template and Fink’s Three Column Table are valuable, but their effectiveness depends on the planning context. I think that the UbD Template will be very effective for long-term unit planning (semester ) and Fink’s Three Column Table is effective for unit/chapter planning (six weeks). UbD Template helps focus on deep understanding, essential questions, and real world transfers. On the other hand, Fink’s Three Column Table is simpler and more flexible, which makes it perfect for designing individual lessons that align goals, assessments, and engaging activities while also considering emotional and personal growth.

 

Utilizing both the UbD Template and Fink’s Three Column Table has deepened my ability to design intentional and impactful learning environments. The UbD Template has taught me to think more strategically about long-term goals and how to build learning experiences that lead to understanding and real world application. It pushes me to consider the "why" behind each unit and keeps my planning focused on the purpose. Meanwhile, the Fink’s Three Column Table has encouraged me to think more holistically, reminding me that meaningful learning also involves emotional engagement, collaboration, and self reflection. Together, these frameworks have sharpened my ability to create learning environments that are not only structured and goal oriented but also responsive and human centered. As I move forward with my innovation plan, I feel more confident in designing experiences that are both scalable and deeply connected to the needs of my students.