On May 17, Dr. Michael Fraser, a supervising psychologist at FFCSD, and Tanya Ball, a school psychology intern at FFCSD, will present at the Annual Conference on Inclusive Schools and Communities for Children and Youth in Tarrytown, NY. The presentation, Fraser said, will focus on the different learning styles that students have, and how teachers can identify those styles in order to become more effective educators.

The title of Fraser and Ball's presentation is "Different Learning Styles Conducive to Success or Failure Both In and Out of the Classroom."

Fraser said he first became involved in the conference when Dr. Constance H. Spohn, Director of Special Programs at FFCSD, approached him and asked if he would write a proposal. Of the 120 submissions, 20 were selected for the conference, Fraser said.

There have been very few presentations done on this topic, Fraser said, however it is something that not only applies to the classroom but also to every day life. If a teacher knows what a child's learning style is, that teacher will be able to cater lesson plans toward that style. The better teachers, Fraser pointed out, are able to teach to all learning styles. Also, if a student knows his or her learning style, that student will be able to take that into consideration when choosing a college and when entering the work force.

When both a teacher and student are aware of that student's learning style, Fraser said the student not only becomes more productive, but will develop a level of confidence in him or herself that will continue outside of high school.

"I'm very flattered that Dr. Spohn asked me, it will be a wonderful experience," Fraser said. "I'm lucky that the school gives me the latitude to do this kind of thing."

Fraser is the supervising psychologist within the school district, as well as an adjunct professor at Albany Medical College, SAGE Graduate School, and Hudson Valley Community College. He is also a sport psychology consultant for the women's basketball and tennis teams at the College of St. Rose, the Siena College Women's Softball team and the Skidmore College Women's Basketball Program.

Ball is currently completing her school psychology internship at FFCSD through the College of St. Rose. Prior to her internship she was a behavior specialist for the Lexington Center located in Gloversville, and is currently the social worker for the Fonda-Fultonville After School Program.

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