An Asset-based Approach to Nurturing the Thrice Exceptional (3e) Student
This session addresses the “Student engagement and belonging” strand based on its focus on the K-18 student experience of being 3e or thrice exceptional. The thrice exceptional student is simultaneously Gifted and Talented, Learning Disabled and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse. Whereas, CSU students may be overwhelmed by the complexity of the three exceptionalities, a knowledgeable Faculty member could direct them in the academics of their course, and/or provide guidance to them for on-campus resources. The thrice exceptional student possesses valuable assets that the CSU community can reinforce and support. In this way, an informed CSU Faculty member could shed light on how to manage giftedness, a learning disability and culturally and linguistically diverse life experiences of the thrice exceptional CSU student.

The session defines the three terms, then discusses the unique assets that each exceptionality presents. The strengths and areas of support for a thrice exceptional student are highlighted. Next, specific asset-based approaches to working with thrice exceptional students would be discussed and modeled as time permits.

Lesson study is a collaborative instructional approach where teachers work together to plan, observe, and refine lessons with the aim of enhancing teaching and learning. While it is commonly associated with elementary education, this session will focus on a lesson study conducted within a Calculus 1 course to foster student engagement and a sense of belonging.

We developed a group activity and introduced it in a Calculus I class where both students and a team of faculty members participated as learners. This approach allowed faculty members to observe student challenges, adapt the lesson plan based on these observations, and prepare for the next implementation. During our session, we will explore the lesson study model, the learning opportunities it offers to instructors, and the impact it has on student experiences.