Bridging Learning Goals, Assessment, and Engagement

Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG):
Support six children with autism in developing essential emotional regulation skills through the Mightier app, helping them gain confidence, resilience, and improved social interactions.

Learning Environment & Situational Factors

Specific Context of the Teaching/Learning Situation

Number of learners: Six children with autism receiving direct support.
Audience: Parents, educators, and therapists working with these children.
Delivery method: Blended learning approach, combining in-person guidance and digital interaction via the Mightier app.
Technology considerations: Access to tablets with Mightier application and arm band, stable internet connection, and individualized learning plans.

General Context of the Learning Situation

Schools, therapy centers, and parents seek effective emotional regulation strategies for children with autism.
Emotional intelligence is increasingly valued in educational and home environments.
The Mightier app provides a research-based intervention for children struggling with self-regulation.

Nature of the Subject

Practical and experiential, with theoretical backing in neuroscience and child psychology.
Focuses on interactive learning, self-reflection, and personalized emotional growth.
No major controversies, but continual research enhances the field.

Characteristics of the Learners

The six children will have different experiences with emotional regulation and varying levels of familiarity with biofeedback tools.
Initial engagement may range from excitement to resistance based on prior experiences with emotional regulation tools.
Individualized approaches will be necessary to meet each child's unique needs.

Characteristics of the Instructor

Facilitators include educators, therapists, or parents trained in the Mightier app.
Focuses on providing consistent support, monitoring progress, and fostering a positive learning environment.
Uses coaching techniques and reinforcement to guide children through emotional regulation exercises.

Nature of the Subject

Practical and experiential, with theoretical backing in neuroscience and child psychology.
Focuses on interactive learning, self-reflection, and personalized emotional growth.
No major controversies, but continual research enhances the field.

Questions for Formulating Significant Learning Goals

A Year (or More) After This Course, I Want and Hope That Students Will:
A year or more after completing this course, I hope that students will have developed the ability to regulate their emotions more effectively in daily life. They will feel more confident in managing their emotions independently and continue using biofeedback strategies to cope with stress and social interactions. Additionally they will be able to apply emotional regulation techniques in various settings, including school, home, and peer interactions. Most importantly they will be empowered to advocate for their own emotional needs and recognize emotions in others, fostering stronger relationships and greater self-awareness.

Foundational Knowledge
Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of emotional regulation and its significance in their lives. They will learn how biofeedback works and how it plays a crucial role in managing emotions. Key concepts such as heart rate variability, self-regulation, coping mechanisms, and mindfulness will be emphasized. Additionally students will explore the connection between their emotions and physiological responses, enabling them to recognize patterns in their emotional states and make informed decisions about their self regulation strategies.

Application Goals
Throughout the course, students will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing their emotional triggers and identifying personal stressors. They will engage in creative thinking by developing personalized coping strategies using the Mightier app. Practical thinking will be a key component as students learn to apply emotional regulation techniques in real-world situations. They will build the ability to self-monitor emotions and adjust behaviors accordingly. Additionally, students will gain essential problem solving skills for handling emotional challenges and learn how to manage both short-term and long-term emotional goals effectively.

Integration Goals
Students will recognize patterns in their emotional responses and understand how these patterns relate to their behaviors. They will learn to connect biofeedback data with self-regulation strategies, enabling them to apply these techniques consistently across different environments. By integrating emotional regulation strategies across school, home, and social settings, students will develop a well rounded approach to managing emotions. Furthermore they will be able to relate their learning from the Mightier app to broader personal development goals, ensuring that these skills continue to benefit them in the future.

Human Dimensions Goals
Through this course our students will develop a deeper understanding of themselves by becoming more aware of their emotions and how these emotions impact their actions. They will gain insight into their personal strengths and challenges regarding emotional regulation. Furthermore they will improve their interpersonal relationships by developing a greater understanding of emotional responses in others. By learning to recognize emotions in their peers and family members, students will cultivate empathy and enhance their ability to communicate effectively and form meaningful connections.

Caring Goals
Students will develop a personal commitment to improving their emotional regulation skills. As they progress through the course, they will build confidence in handling difficult emotional situations and develop a greater interest in their overall emotional well-being. By understanding the importance of emotional regulation in their daily lives and social interactions, students will be more inclined to prioritize their mental health and apply what they have learned to maintain emotional balance in various situations

Learning-How-to-Learn Goals
Students will develop long term strategies for continuing their emotional regulation journey beyond the course. They will learn how to set and track their emotional development goals independently, giving them the tools needed to maintain and improve their emotional well-being. Additionally they will understand how to seek out resources and support when needed, ensuring that they can continue growing in emotional intelligence. Ultimately students will become self-directed learners in emotional intelligence and mental health, taking an active role in their lifelong personal development.