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online1: Iowa Online Teaching Standards - 43 views

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shared by r kleinow on 05 Sep 10 - Cached
  • Proposed Online Teaching Standards
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 05 Sep 10
       
      These standards are non-evaluative. They are meant to provide guidance in nationally recognized best practices for teaching online.
    • ksteingr
      ksteingr on 15 Sep 10
       
      I'm getting ready to work with a group of teacher librarians and we are starting by looking at our guidelines from Dept. of Ed for school library program. I think each year, as we add new tools, strategies, we have to not lose sight of the progress we are making on any standards or guidelines. Seeing how close we are to best practice, only helps us focus on what work we have to do. So, they may be non-evaluative, but maybe also not "optional". Does that make sense? Kristin
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      I think that makes sense. There is a proper procedure (I'm assuming) inclusive of the BoEE, SAI, and ISEA on setting standards that would be evaluative... and therefore necessary for licensure. These haven't gone through that process. One of the best things about the standards is exactly what is being done on this page... they lead to good discussions about what is great teaching.
  • Knows and aligns instruction to the achievement goals of the local agency and the state, such as with the Iowa Core (Varvel I.A, ITS 1.f, ITS 3.a)
    • denise carlson
      denise carlson on 12 Sep 10
       
      This is not unique to the online teaching standards. It would seem prudent to align anything we teach to students and/or adults with the Iowa Core or the newly adopted Common Core Standards in reading and math.
    • bonnie smith
      bonnie smith on 19 Sep 10
       
      I agree; with so much to teach these days, the classroom time needs to be tightly tied your Content Area Standards (in my case Reading) and Technology. My students will be in a world quite different from mine, so more Technology use is needed. They are already experimenting with Online usage but without supervision and guidance. The Standards will help me as a teacher to focus on ethics for Internet use and help in guiding them into the best pratices.
    • Julie Townsend
      Julie Townsend on 18 Jan 11
       
      The teaching standards have always provided me with guidance when selecting content to teach my students. When I taught Art, Science or Social Studies. Technology knowledge is critical to everyone, including students in special education. I was unaware until taking this Moodle course, of the online teaching standards. I agree that it is a good tool for teaching.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      I have always had a strong interest in knowing and aligning the instruction with the goals. It is very easy to fall in to the practice of doing things because: "they have always been done", because I found an exciting new tool, or it is the catch phrase of the month, I feel it is good practice to regularly revisit the desired goal to better assure the alignment of that goal and the instructional opportunities to achieve said goal. I am glad this is here and glad it is at the top, intended or not.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      Aligning insturction with the goals is somethign I have always had an interest in. I think it is very easy to fall into the practice of: always having done it that way, or trying the new exciting tool, or jumping on the catch phrase of the month with out considering the learnign goal. I think it is very important to regualry revisit the learning and achievement goals to make cetian that the instruction is aligned to that goal. I am glad to see it mentioned here, and intendedl or not, glad to see it at the top.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      I would agree that aligning the instruction with the goal is an important and often over looked piece of instruction. Way to often instructional practice is done because; "that's the way it has always been done, or because we found a new exciting tool, or because of the catch phrase of the month. I am glad to see the 'goal-instructional alignment" piece mentioned and glad to see it at the top.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      I would agree and have always been a big fan of aligning instruction with the learning or achievement goals. Way to often I have used a particular instruction because 1. That's the way it was always done, 2. There was a new exciting tool or 3. There was a new or popular catch phrase going around. I am glad to see this listed, and intended or not, glad to see it at the top. I view it as very important to often revisit the goals to assess if the instruction is aligned to that goal.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      I would agree and have always been a big fan of aligning instruction with the learning or achievement goals. Way to often I have used a particular instruction because 1. That's the way it was always done, 2. There was a new exciting tool or 3. There was a new or popular catch phrase going around. I am glad to see this listed, and intended or not, glad to see it at the top. I view it as very important to often revisit the goals to assess if the instruction is aligned to that goal.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      I would agree and have always been a big fan of aligning instruction with the learning or achievement goals. Way to often I have used a particular instruction because 1. That's the way it was always done, 2. There was a new exciting tool or 3. There was a new or popular catch phrase going around. I am glad to see this listed, and intended or not, glad to see it at the top. I view it as very important to often revisit the goals to assess if the instruction is aligned to that goal.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Jan 11
       
      Checking to see if this note goes through.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 21 Jan 11
       
      test
    • linda vann
      linda vann on 22 Jan 11
       
      I too was unaware of the online teaching standards, but they make perfect sense. If we expect to bring students into the 21st century classroom, then using standards to guide that work will help all stakeholders. Otherwise, there is really no way to measure our effectiveness in the online environment.
  • Is knowledgeable and has the ability to use computer programs required in online education to improve learning and teaching, including course management software (CMS) and synchronous/asynchronous communication tools (chat, email, web 2.0, videoconferencing, webinar, whiteboard, etc.) (SREB B.3, Varvel III.B)
    • denise carlson
      denise carlson on 12 Sep 10
       
      This one puts a bit of trepidation in my soul. I want to use technology well when I teach adult learners. However, I know that I still have a lot to learn in this realm.
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 13 Sep 10
       
      It's impossible to stay trained and current on all of the available tools. Just pick a few that work for you and work with incorporating those. You are better off knowing a lot about a few tools than knowing a little bit about hundreds of tools.
    • Leslie Roberts
      Leslie Roberts on 13 Sep 10
       
      I agree that it is impossible to stay current and trained on all available tools, but I don't think this is what the standard is saying. My interpretation is that it just encourages online educators to be lifelong learners and stay abreast of changes. I also agree that it is better to find the tools we like the best and learn to use and apply them to our course objectives.
    • Pam Buysman
      Pam Buysman on 15 Sep 10
       
      I think this goes back to the discussion we had last week. Knowing what tool will work best in a particular learning situation is important. I try to stay current, but that really is almost impossible. Just in the first week, others in class referenced many online tools that I wasn't familar with, but wanted to learn more about. Using Diigo is another example. I've used this tool for awhile and that is evident by looking at my bookmarks. However, I have not utilized the group function nor have I used the discussion feature. I think this would be a wonderful tool to use in the online environment!
    • ksteingr
      ksteingr on 15 Sep 10
       
      I think the focus here makes a good point. An online class will be by definition part of synchronous and asynchronous communication. So instructors and students have to work with tools such as Skype, meebo, Adobe Connect for webinars, videoconferencing, etc. In the case of Skype, this morning I worked with a partner in South Carolina and we used Skype to share screens, send messages, but we didn't use the web camera because seeing each other for this meeting wasn't necessary. We only needed to hear each other and see items on our desktops. And secondly, (although you have it listed first), if you are online, you need a CMS - in this case, Moodle to tie it all together. Teachers need to practice in this environment - set up a meeting with someone to use Skype, register for a free webinar, etc. Expand your learning! :-)
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      I think the modifier "knowledgeable" and the "ability to use" instead of "has mastery of" is crucial. Those that wrote the national standards recognized what everyone here has said, that technology changes so much, mastery is not only impossible, but foolish to seek.
    • bonnie smith
      bonnie smith on 19 Sep 10
       
      As a Reading Teacher I expect myself to be knowledgeable and have the ability to use (though mastery would a goal), but are these Standards for the classroom teacher or the teacher of Technology?
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 20 Sep 10
       
      "has knowledge" is a beginning point. Some of our group members don't feel "knowledgeable" even though they have used many of the Web 2.0 tools. Those wise folks know exactly how big the "ocean" of technology is - that's why there is a bit of discomfort. When that discomfort or thirst for more knowledge leads one to a class like this, IT's a Very good end result!!!
    • Cheryl Mullenbach
      Cheryl Mullenbach on 20 Jan 11
       
      Like anything else, you can always find someone who is more knowledgeable, but you can always find someone is less knowledgeable than you are too!
    • Valerie Jergens
      Valerie Jergens on 21 Jan 11
       
      Too bad these standards are for online course teachers only. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we were moving to blended classes everywhere? It would be for me-I'd like to see a lot more use of online resources. There are so many simulations, games, virtual environments that students could be exxperiencing. And, then having conversation about outside of the classroom. Wouldn't that be an improvement on a worksheet for homework?
    • linda vann
      linda vann on 22 Jan 11
       
      This is a rather daunting standard at first glance. Keeping up with technology is not an occasional event. What it does say to me is that we have to be willing to make this an ongoing effort and not become complacent with learning just one or two tools, but to stay open to trying new tools. I think the key is matching the technology to the learning goal.
    • Jeny Schoenhard
      Jeny Schoenhard on 24 Jan 11
       
      I was wondering the same think as Bonnie, are these standards for the classroom teacher or the teacher of Technology. I feel that we should have some basic knowledge of a tool before introducing it into a classroom full of students, however being that we are all lifelong learnings it is a given that the students will find things within that tool that we didn't know about and be able to teach us something. I just feel that if I wait to master something before bringing it to my students they will never experience it.
  • ...53 more annotations...
  • Understands and uses data from assessments to guide instruction
    • denise carlson
      denise carlson on 12 Sep 10
       
      Is this speaking to formative assesment/assessment for learning? How can we be sure that all readers of this document have the same definition of "assessement"? Lack of a common vocabulary sometimes leads to misconceptions and misunderstaindings.
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 17 Sep 10
       
      That's a very critical issue! There are way too many assessments "given" that are not used! And then who gets to decide which assessments should be privileged over others. Reliability and validity do need to count as major players in the decisions!
    • Kim Wise
      Kim Wise on 18 Jan 11
       
      Good points. Lots going on in this short sentence. I would hope that the intent would be around student learning and not just completion of tasks. This would lead the instructor to be a critical consumer of what data would help him/her accomplish teaching for understanding.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      I would agree this is an important and, for me, challenging aspect. I am guessing this is implied but I think it is crucial to use data from valid and reliable assessments (whatever that means) as many times I hear of decisions being made based on data that has little to do with the actual skills and abilities we would like the learner to have. Finding easy to use assessments that can provide meaningful data to guide instruction has been a challenge for me but one that I think can help to be addressed by the influx of technolgy tools and their ability to collect and provide graphic representations to aid in analysis of the data. On the simpler side I think it speaks to the importance of the instructor learner relationship. If learning is going to be advanced the instructor must have and use information of where the learner currently is and then instruct accordingly.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      Using data to guide intruction is another area that I have a great deal of interest in. I am a fimr beleiver that the single most important thing a teacher needs to know is to find out what the learn knows, figure that out then instruct accordingly, and this would need to be an ongoing process. The challenge, for me, is to find assessments that can efficiently provide that information but I think technolgy tools can can certainly help in that area with alll that can be doen to collect and organize data for easier analysis. A key piece to that being certain that I am collecting data that is well aligned with what the learner needs to know and be able to do, as I often see decisions that seem to be made based on data that seems to have little to do with what we really want learns to know and be able to do.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      I would agree that this is a key piece. I am a believer that the single most important thing a teacher needs to know is what the learner already knows and then to teach accordingly. Collecting and using that information is an important part of any learning process.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      Again this is something I am glad to see. I am a believer that the single most important thing a teacher needs to know is what the learner already knows. Then to take that information and teach accordingly. I think this standard speaks to the importance of that and the ongoing process that should be taking place with any quality instruction.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      Again this is something I am glad to see. I am a believer that the single most important thing a teacher needs to know is what the learner already knows. Then to take that information and teach accordingly. I think this standard speaks to the importance of that and the ongoing process that should be taking place with any quality instruction.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      Again this is something I am glad to see. I am a believer that the single most important thing a teacher needs to know is what the learner already knows. Then to take that information and teach accordingly. I think this standard speaks to the importance of that and the ongoing process that should be taking place with any quality instruction.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      Again this is something I am glad to see. I am a believer that the single most important thing a teacher needs to know is what the learner already knows. Then to take that information and teach accordingly. I think this standard speaks to the importance of that and the ongoing process that should be taking place with any quality instruction.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 20 Jan 11
       
      Again this is something I am glad to see. I am a believer that the single most important thing a teacher needs to know is what the learner already knows. Then to take that information and teach accordingly. I think this standard speaks to the importance of that and the ongoing process that should be taking place with any quality instruction.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 20 Jan 11
       
      I'd reiterate what Denise said... it is a critical question to ask!
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 20 Jan 11
       
      This is a valuable question to ask, Denise!
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 21 Jan 11
       
      Kim, you said, "I would hope that the intent would be around student learning and not just completion of tasks." I couldn't agree more! This is assessment FOR learning (formative assessment) as we know it in the Iowa Core characteristics of effective instruction. (I think denise mentioned it in an earlier sticky note, now that I look back at it...). Effective instruction in a face-to-face environment seems to be similar to an online environment, too...to some degree.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Jan 11
       
      This is a good question you posed, Denise!
  • Utilizes a course evaluation and student feedback data to improve the course (Varvel VI.F)
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 13 Sep 10
       
      This step is crucial. It's very tempting to set up a course and never touch it again. Given the constantly changing online environment, it is even more necessary to stay current with a regularily-scheduled course review process.
    • Leslie Roberts
      Leslie Roberts on 13 Sep 10
       
      I have been in online classes where the instructor has taken a course and just "refried it" from offering to offering. Links are no longer valid, dates are incorrect, technologies have changed, etc.
    • denise carlson
      denise carlson on 15 Sep 10
       
      That would be terrible. I'm spending so much time putting together my course. I want to be positive everything is in top working condition so participants won't face any frustration.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      "Refried it". I've never heard that term before... it's now part of my lexicon! Denise, what you mention is so true. There is a bit of pride involved in a course, whether online or F2F (at least I should say you can tell the teachers who take pride in their work very quickly). On the other hand, links expire without notice very quickly, and updates are made to Moodle servers behind your back that all of a sudden change the way your course looks. It's tough to keep up sometimes.
    • bonnie smith
      bonnie smith on 19 Sep 10
       
      Each year I have had the students reflect on units covered this year...It has always been for my benefit...interesting to see it as a proposed Standard now.
    • Sara Youngers
      Sara Youngers on 16 Jan 11
       
      I think "Refried" courses happen whether they are online or in the classroom. This standard should be for all courses, not just online ones.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 17 Jan 11
       
      I agree, Sara. Our AEA has an online evaluation for courses with participants responding to Likert scale items and given the chance to add comments. Much depends on the instructor's willingness to honestly examine that feedback, consider patterns in the responses, and make adjustments that improve the course.
  • • Assists students with technology used in the course (Varvel III.C)
    • Leslie Roberts
      Leslie Roberts on 13 Sep 10
       
      I feel that assisting online learners in a course is very important to keep them from being frustrated and spending too much on the technology and not enough time on the learning. I find that I have to deliver one-on-one help in my online class to teachers who are not as tech savvy as others.
    • Gale Zellweger
      Gale Zellweger on 14 Sep 10
       
      Leslie, I have been on the student side of this standard and totally agree with you!
    • Pam Buysman
      Pam Buysman on 15 Sep 10
       
      Leslie: I agree as well. If possible, I think it would be a good idea to have some F2F time. This might work well at the beginning of the class so participants will feel comfortable with the interface. I also think this might alleviate fears learners might have and consequently content will become primary and the technology secondary.
    • Judy Sweetman
      Judy Sweetman on 18 Sep 10
       
      Great point about the content remaining the primary focus and the technology secondary. I know I appreciate the tutorials in this course and in others I have taken when it has been provided. If I have to find my own online tutorial or read about it, it takes way too much time and I'm totally stressed before I even begin the actual assignment.
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 28 Sep 10
       
      Staying focused on the content is critical in reaching the overall goals of a course. When I first stated taking online courses I would often find myself double checking what I did to make sure a post occurred or paper uploaded. The more online courses I have participated in has yielded a comfort level with the technology tool and thus the focus can be on the content.
    • charles krueger
      charles krueger on 20 Jan 11
       
      I can strongly relate to this, I'm one of those less than tech savvy teachers. There are so many new and potentially very useful tools that it is hard to know which will be useful to me.
    • Jeremy Nally
      Jeremy Nally on 20 Jan 11
       
      I agree with that helping with the technology takes the stress off. I think that tutorials over the technology being used is a great way to help both student and teacher save time. This way if something is forgotten you can go back and see what the next step is.
    • Jeremy Nally
      Jeremy Nally on 20 Jan 11
       
      I know that when I have something that has to be done using technology I can get frustrated really easily. Having a tutorial like I have for the class I am in right now has been very helpful and that way if I feel like I am lost I can go back and watch the tutorial to see if what I need to do next.
    • Jeremy Nally
      Jeremy Nally on 20 Jan 11
       
      I agree with the comments. I know that when I have anything dealing with technology I sometimes get a little worked up. The more I am comfortable with what I am doing the better I do. I really like to the online class I am in right now because the tutorials really help me with the assignments. They allow me to learn the technology before I have to use it.
    • Gale Zellweger
      Gale Zellweger on 14 Sep 10
       
      This sounds like "super teacher!"
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      Standards have a way of sounding like that, don't they?
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 20 Sep 10
       
      But high expectations are really good for all learners! And if we aren't life-long learners as teachers, how will our students ever be life-long learners? (It's in most of our 35 school districts' mission statements!)
    • Mike Bevelacqua
      Mike Bevelacqua on 18 Jan 11
       
      Content knowledge is one factor that is very highly correlated with student achievement. At least in Math Eduction research...
  • • Maintains an online social presence that is available, approachable, positive, interactive, and sincere (SREB C.3, Varvel VII.A)
    • Judy Sweetman
      Judy Sweetman on 18 Sep 10
       
      I know this is one thing I need to work on in my classes. Because I take online classes as well as teach them, it's easy to forget to check in with the classes I teach, as I'm so worried about deadlines for my own assignments.
    • Tony Amsler
      Tony Amsler on 20 Sep 10
       
      I've really try to maintain an online social presence by.... 1. weekly "check-in's" to post tips and suggestions, 2. to setup a calendar that will attempt to keep students "on pace" between due dates, rather posting an email that everything is due tomorrow. 3. always responed to student's posting with discussion forum. I know I could do more.... always looking for innovative ways to do it... even considered meeting in Second Life (keep in mind I teach college students online ;-)
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 20 Sep 10
       
      I think it's also important to think about the " positive and the interactive" that are built in through "community building". I've been in some on-line classes where many folks are working at the "minimum" level of participation and really don't even add much more than a sentence in response to a comment. (YES, worse than the kids when they want to know How Much they need to write!)
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 17 Jan 11
       
      Does this also mean actively participating in social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter?
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 19 Jan 11
       
      I sure hope it doesn't. As much as I am tied to the computer at both work and home, I have avoided the social networking sites with diligence. I don't have a problem interacting with others regarding work related items, etc., but I have a real hesitation to 'share my personal life and thoughts' with the cyber-world. Even the ability to select those 'friends' doesn't really give me any reassurance that a link can be made to those that I don't select.
    • Steve Van Gundy
      Steve Van Gundy on 19 Jan 11
       
      I have to believe it means some type of professional site, and not Facebook/Twitter. I've avoided social networking sites like the plague, mostly because I like to be off the computer if I'm not working. And I agree with Eldon, I don't necessarily want to put my personal life out there for all to read. But I have no problem maintaining a "professional" online presence.
    • Steve Van Gundy
      Steve Van Gundy on 20 Jan 11
       
      I have to believe it's not including Facebook/Twitter or whatever else is out there. I've avoided those like the plague, mainly probably because I don't like being glued to the computer when I'm not working.
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 21 Jan 11
       
      I'm wondering what it *does* mean then...any ideas, Eldon?
  • Identifies and communicates learning outcomes and expectations through a course overview/orientation (Varvel IV.A, ITS 3.b)
    • Pam Buysman
      Pam Buysman on 15 Sep 10
       
      I took the instructional design class this past summer. One of the things we needed to do was to create an overview/orientation for our learners. Before I took the class, I already had my course somewhat organized, but had neglected to include this feature in my course. Now, I realize how really important this is. One of my colleagues at work often uses the phrase, "go slow to go fast." I think that's so applicable here. It takes time to create the overview and you're really not having students learn content. However, by providing the necessary guidelines and instructions immediately, things will go much smoother in the class.
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 17 Sep 10
       
      I, too, like the "go slow to go fast"! because teachers need time to absorb the learning. That means that we have to begin with the end in mind or we won't make it to our learning destination. I often compare that to heading to Des Moines but ending up in Detroit, Michigan. They are both DM towns so that would be OK? It gives a "light-hearted" view of the necessity for the overview as you said Pam.
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 28 Sep 10
       
      How very true to "go slow to go fast". I would be one of those individuals who "absorbs the learning". I want to make sure that my skills are to a level that will benefit the learner and not cause confusion.
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 21 Jan 11
       
      I often struggle with the phrase 'go slow to go fast' as I am not quite sure how 'fast' benefits any kind of learning. And I don't mean to equate fast to speed; but rather to equate fast to skimming the surface. In the experiences I have had with online courses for adult learners I find using a landscape post to reflect back some of their own quotes helps them think more deeply about the essential question to which they are responding. That deep thinking results in much more conceptual understanding (and dare I say paradigm shifting).
  • Has experienced online learning from the perspective of a student
    • ksteingr
      ksteingr on 15 Sep 10
       
      You know this is interesting. We most likely teach as we were taught, but in reality, we need to be teaching very differently today than in the past. Our students are motivated by different things. So taking an online class is a very good idea, but I think "living" and "working" more like our students is as helpful. If they are texting their friends to set something up, are we texting our students? That is their world. Something to think about maybe!
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 17 Sep 10
       
      I can remember not being happy with elementary teachers who had taught my father some 30 years earlier. These times have changed. That ship has sailed! Lectures and standing in front of a group delivering knowledge are not helpful in promoting learning that leads to application and creation!!!
    • Judy Sweetman
      Judy Sweetman on 18 Sep 10
       
      I think this is an important benchmark! I know I was very appreciative of what I had learned from the many online classes I had taken before I was asked to teach one. I "borrowed" the ideas that I really liked--especially organizational ideas, and embedded them in my classes.
    • Jenny Sinclair
      Jenny Sinclair on 19 Sep 10
       
      I heard a quote recently about this exact thing and it really made me think. It was a young student speaking. He said, "Don't prepare us for your world, prepare us for ours."
    • Tony Amsler
      Tony Amsler on 20 Sep 10
       
      As I jumped into online teacher over a year ago, all the material and books on the subject stressed this very point... to teach an online class it is best to experience it from the student perspective. This certainly was helpful when it came to design and implementation of my own course. I have recently join a peer review group called Learning Triangles - 3 instructors all enroll in each other's class for the purpose of furthering improve our instruction.
    • Jason Martin-Hiner
      Jason Martin-Hiner on 17 Jan 11
       
      This standard is certainly a big reason why I'm participating in this course. Trying to prepare to teach an online course through "traditional" methods seems a little like trying to learn to swim by reading a book.
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 19 Jan 11
       
      Once again - Jason speaks the right words! We think of how we offer PD - one of the critical pieces of teaching a new strategy or concept is to put the teacher in the student desk and allow them to experience the learning. As always - the best way to learn is by doing. "Sit and git" just doesn't make it!
    • Cheryl Mullenbach
      Cheryl Mullenbach on 20 Jan 11
       
      I think everyone who teaches online should first have taken an online course. You really need to see it from both sides.
  • Selects and understands how to evaluate learning materials and resources that align with the context and enhance learning
    • ksteingr
      ksteingr on 15 Sep 10
       
      Is this the only place where we mention resources? I think the type of resources works with differentiation, motivation and learning in general. Are we adding content to our classes - digital video, access to print - online, online databases? This is very important, I think.
    • Cheryl Carruthers
      Cheryl Carruthers on 16 Sep 10
       
      Yes, selection of quality resources would be important. Online resources today are vast, and we want to have our students using resources that are age appropriate, MCGF, authoritative, differentiated for learning styles, and that will advance the learning goals of the class. Students should be evaluating the resources that they find online as to validity and usefullness. Lots of opportunities for teacher librarians to work with teachers designing online opportunities for their students in the area of resources!
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      In answer to your question, Kristin, this is primarily it for the teaching standards and resources, as utilizing resources in online teaching heavily falls in the instructional design process (std. 3). Specific applications of resources are more heavily identified in the course standards.
  • Designs the structure of the course and the presentation of the content to best enhance student learning, including using unit/lesson overviews and reviews, using patterns in lesson sequencing, and using appropriate visual web design techniques (SREB C.14, Varvel V.F)
    • Leslie Roberts
      Leslie Roberts on 15 Sep 10
       
      I feel that course design and presentation are very important. Using good desing techniques helps the student to become more focused on content and better able to organize thoughts. If a site is too hard to follow visually, it can be confusing, distracting and frustrating, especially for novice online learners or technology learners.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      It's funny how something like the design of your Moodle site seems so non-academic (or non-Iowa Core-ish), and yet you are exactly right.
    • Jenny Sinclair
      Jenny Sinclair on 19 Sep 10
       
      At times I have questioned if I have addressed all of the course requirements, completed the assignments, etc. Taking a course yourself is a good reminder that someone else is going to have to follow your train of thought and act upon it. If my students are confused by the structure, it will take away from their ability to comprehend the material. I am experimenting with color on my Moodle site to see if it helps younger students. For example, all assignments that have to be completed have blue text. Additional resources, tutorials, etc. have red text. Hope that helps them...
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 20 Sep 10
       
      I really like your color coding idea, Jenny. I have been shocked at how "un-linear" I have been in this class as I start in one place and don't necessarily go through the list. I have liked anything that says "you are done!" So anything you do to make those tasks more visible for students will be helpful!
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      I agree--color coding sounds like a good idea! Might the Heartland Moodle consider some consistent colors? So as participants move from class to class, they colors stay the same?
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 17 Jan 11
       
      Leslie, I couldn't agree more with your thoughts on course design and presentation. I completed a hybrid online/f2f graduate program a few years ago at one of IA's regents institutions. One of the courses in the sequence was perceived by several in the cohort to be very poorly done. Why? The design, layout and navigation were much different (and perhaps less linear) than the rest of the courses.
  • Tailors instruction to meet the different needs of students, including different learning styles, different interests and backgrounds, and students with special needs or whom are language learners
    • Cheryl Carruthers
      Cheryl Carruthers on 16 Sep 10
       
      Online tools provide lots of opportunites to diferentiate instruction, everything from providing resources at varying reading levels, text to speech capabilities, language translations, visual resources; technology can really be "assistive" for all learners.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      That's one benefit of online learning that is not mentioned enough. We stress flexibility in terms of time, pace, and place, but the flexibility of access to content using online tools is such an untapped benefit for students with different needs.
    • Carla Lee
      Carla Lee on 17 Jan 11
       
      We also should talk about student engagement. Many students are much more engaged in on-line learning than in the old traditional mode. So this meets that engagement piece as well. I would also agree with both of you as far as access to different types of resouces.
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 19 Jan 11
       
      Possibly one of the biggest hurdles to this is also the primary reason we use online instruction. The logistics of face-to-face are difficult to overcome, so we go online. We can offer many scenarios, but do we really know without the personal interaction how the participants are reacting to the instruction. Is there enough feedback opportunities to vary the instruction as needed? I don't want to seem too negative - just appears to be one of those difficulties without the f2f.
    • Tera Schechinger
      Tera Schechinger on 19 Jan 11
       
      Tailoring instruction online seems like it is much easier than fce to face. Purposeful planning is always difficult but an online environment allows the teacher to support those who need it when they need it and push those students to go beyond what they ever imagined they could do. I agree with cheryl that online tools provide teacher with many resources to differentiate for each and every student based on their needs.
    • Phyllis Anderson
      Phyllis Anderson on 20 Jan 11
       
      Even if instruction isn't designed for specific students' needs, it can be varied in ways that allow different avenues for students to gain understanding. The tenants of Universal Design for Learning fit in here beautifully.
  • Understands and uses course content that complies with intellectual property rights and fair use, and assists students in complying as well
    • Cheryl Carruthers
      Cheryl Carruthers on 16 Sep 10
       
      We just held a workshop at our AEA this past week on Digital Citizenship for Today's Schools that addressed this topic. Our presenter emphasized the importance ot teaching students about ethical use of technology. It becomes especially important as student work moves outside of the 4 walls of the classroom and out on to the Internet and social media. This topic ties directly into the 21 Century Tech Literacy part of the Iowa Core - Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility.
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 17 Sep 10
       
      And ethical use of technology needs to be DEMONSTRATED by all staff, all the time. It's hard to "condemn" students for plagiarizing when the teacher never gives proper credit for visuals or text that may or may not be in the public domain!
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      Very well said, Fran. I've been guilty of that myself.
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 17 Jan 11
       
      This is a convicting criteria. I did not do a very good job as a f2f teacher citing my sources - even more important in an online environment!
  • Selects and uses technologies appropriate to the content that enhance learning (SREB M.3, Varvel IV.D, ITS 3.e, ITS 4.f)
    • Pam Buysman
      Pam Buysman on 17 Sep 10
       
      We spent time discussing this in last weeks forum. How do you select the best technology to use in your class? How many different tools do you need in your toolbox so you have an adequate selection? In order to meet this criteria, I think we need to do our best to stay current. Obviously, that can't mean we are familiar with everything, because that would be impossible. We do need to be aware, however, about the different catagories of tools..wikis, blogs, screencasts, etc. This class will certainly help us in that endeavor.
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 17 Jan 11
       
      When I read this criteria, I thought of the TPACK framework and some of the work done on learning activity types: http://activitytypes.wmwikis.net/ When does it make the most sense to use a blog rather than a wiki? My guess is that an effective online teacher can answer these types of questions effectively.
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 19 Jan 11
       
      Ditto Ditto! I was very impressed, but also overwhelmed at all the tools available online. Being a 'dabbler' by nature, I have to force myself to pick a few and try to become proficient at those rather than be less than adequate at a large number of tools. A good carpenter is necessarily a good plumber!
  • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies (
    • bonnie smith
      bonnie smith on 19 Sep 10
       
      How will this be measured?
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Sep 10
       
      Some districts use a skills checklist or Atomic Learning-style skill inventories as a requirement for teachers (they post these in their portfolio). Others would include completion of a class, although the skeptic could say that's not necessarily showing growth. There is the actual lessons or technological artifacts produced from technology work (if you saw a copy of this class from 2 years ago to a copy of it today, you'd definitely see how I've grown in this area).
    • Kim Wise
      Kim Wise on 18 Jan 11
       
      My family's district had both students and parents fill out a technology skills survey. I'm not sure how it matched up to the skills of our teachers (we're a one to one district) but it was informing for me. My 7th grader was unsure of lots of the terms which indicated to me she wasn't using that technology.
  • student self-assessment and pre-assessment
    • fgmcveigh
      fgmcveigh on 20 Sep 10
       
      Wow! Student ownership for self-assessment and pre-assessment so it's not the teacher who is always doing the "assessing". It seems like the learner is often "left out" of a lot of assessment systems!
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      This aligns well with the Iowa Core's characteristics of effective instruction--being more student centered and using assessment for learning. Yeah!
    • Phyllis Anderson
      Phyllis Anderson on 20 Jan 11
       
      Peer and self assessment are important attributes of Assessment for Learning. They can help students develop life-long learning skills.
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 21 Jan 11
       
      Drinda, I agree that this one reflects the research about the benefits of assessment for learning lying in the students' owning the assessment process through peer and self assessment. Do you find that students you have worked with are reflective and skilled peer and self assessors of their learning?
    • Valerie Jergens
      Valerie Jergens on 21 Jan 11
       
      I was seeing the connection between this statement and the CEI as well. I think metacognition is woven throughout the attributes of the CEI. If you can do self-assessment well you can have a real start on teaching with CEI.
  • Creates or selects multiple assessment instruments
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 20 Jan 11
       
      How often are we so guilty of using the 'easiest' assessment to grade/evaluate, but it is not the most appropriate for the content and the student? Even less often do we have multiple assessment for different learners.
  • Communicates assessment criteria and standards to students, including rubrics for student performances and participation
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 28 Sep 10
       
      Students need to be made aware of the criteria established for assessment. The rubric provided should clearly identify what is considered to be above, below or meeting standards. Students will then be held accountable for the level or depth of individual learning.
    • Philip Giltner
      Philip Giltner on 19 Jan 11
       
      I agree. Rubrics provides a tool for students to compare their work against the acceptance criteria allowing them to better assess there work prior to submitting it.
  • Promotes learning through online collaboration group work that is goal-oriented and focused
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 28 Sep 10
       
      Collaboration among students in an online learning environment needs to occur early in the course. Just we were asked to complete a profile that provided information as to position, interest, etc...the same hold true for other online courses. Students need to feel as contributing member on the group and fellow students need to be observant in responding to all over time so no single individual is omitted from feedback on their viewpoint of a question, etc...Successful collobration among students may lead to a richer discussion and depth of learning.
    • Carla Lee
      Carla Lee on 17 Jan 11
       
      No kidding. Working on line would be very important for students to get to know the other students in the classroom. Especially if they are to work together. I also think this is the way of the future and getting students prepared for the work place. Many corporations use on line meetings to cut expenses etc. If we don't start teaching this way, how can we justify that we are getting students ready for work place?
    • Jeremy Nally
      Jeremy Nally on 20 Jan 11
       
      These would be good for teachers to use to see if the students can explain some things in a way to peers that may help in the classroom. There discussions online could really help them see diffenrent ways the material was seen online or in the class.
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 21 Jan 11
       
      I particulary appreciate the opportunity to 'see' a photo image of the other learners as well as to 'hear' their voices through the threaded discussions when I am collaborating with others on a common online assignment/task/product.
  • Provides and communicates evidence of learning and course data to students and colleagues
    • Sara Youngers
      Sara Youngers on 16 Jan 11
       
      This is right in line with collecting formative assessments. Not only do we need to collect this information, we need to share it with class participants.
    • Sandy Kluver
      Sandy Kluver on 19 Jan 11
       
      We are collecting so much data on students now but it's very important to communicate that data to the students too! I think we sometimes forget that they can learn a lot about themselves through the data too.
    • Martha Condon
      Martha Condon on 19 Jan 11
       
      This first standard (in it's entirity) really sticks out to me as crucial for effective learning. Formative assessment and data-based decision making is the only way for students and teachers to make changes to improve learning outcomes. Online learning adds a new element, in that the instructor must be incredibly purposeful in how data and feedback is provided. With no nonverbals to assist in our feedback to learners, online teachers must become very effective "words-only" communicators.
    • Sue Runyon
      Sue Runyon on 21 Jan 11
       
      I agree that this is formative assessment that not only informs our instruction but informs students about their learning and what they can do to improve their learning
  • Creates a safe environment, managing conflict
    • Sara Youngers
      Sara Youngers on 16 Jan 11
       
      This safe environment is crucial for learners who may struggle. It needs to be a learning environment free from ridicule.
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 17 Jan 11
       
      Handling conflict in an online environment - that could be an entire course in itself! I'm interested to learn more about this one.
    • Jason Martin-Hiner
      Jason Martin-Hiner on 17 Jan 11
       
      Hopefully this is addressed in the course expectations - I'm noticing quite a bit of overlap between the teaching standards and the course expectations...I guess I shouldn't be surprised since the course design is so closely tied to how the course will be taught.
    • Sandy Kluver
      Sandy Kluver on 19 Jan 11
       
      I've heard college students complain about some on-line classes they took and conflict between participants was one of their main concerns. Instructors need to monitor conversations very closely but this can be hard to do when you have 25-50 participants and lots of discussions going on at once!
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 21 Jan 11
       
      It would seem this is why the community building as part of the course intro is so important - to reinforce that real people - not avatars - are on the receiving end. The illusion (and often the reality) of anonymity causes some people to lose all sense of propriety and decency in online discussions. Just looking at comments on news sites and blogs is evidence. I would agree with Matt: teaching this could be its own course.
    • Valerie Jergens
      Valerie Jergens on 21 Jan 11
       
      Handling conflict like this could be a whole new skill set for instructors. Before I read this statement, I would have assumed that this doesn't happen-that there is respect for everyone and their ideas-guess I need to be prepared and learn more.
  • Demonstrates ethical conduct as defined by state law and local policies or procedures
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      This needs to be a constant conversation. We recently debated for several days the difference between sharing something online in a webinar, and posting something online. What permissions did we have? Did the originator actually understand what permission we were seeking? What precedent would be set?
  • Applies research, knowledge, and skills from professional growth to improve practice
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      Part of this becomes bringing along your students, clients, and participants. Sometimes taking a risk with something online does not go as well as you'd like. Have you let them know what to expect? Have you asked them for feedback to improve your skills? It's not just about the teacher trying new things, it's about teachers and students as a community trying new things.
    • Sandy Kluver
      Sandy Kluver on 19 Jan 11
       
      This phrase reminds me of a phrase from the Iowa teaching standards. Very important to use research based strategies as we make decisions that directly effect the students.
  • Has knowledge of learning theory appropriate to online learning,
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      This is where I feel I am floundering. I am so glad to have OLLIE to begin developing these skills.
    • Peggy Christensen
      Peggy Christensen on 18 Jan 11
       
      Drinda, I'm right there with you. Online learning is a whole new world for me. It is definitely different teaching online than it is face-to-face.
    • charles krueger
      charles krueger on 20 Jan 11
       
      It is very difficult to know if a student "has knowledge" about anything, especially in an online venue. Best a student can do is give appropriate responses
  • Meets the professional teaching standards established by a state-licensing agency, or has the academic credentials in the field in which he or she is teaching
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 16 Jan 11
       
      This criteria may stifle innovation a bit, but at the same time could make the standards more credible. What does everyone else think?
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 21 Jan 11
       
      Matt, would you elaborate on how you feel this criteria could "stifle innovation"?
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 21 Jan 11
       
      "meeting a standard," in my mind indicates aiming for a baseline proficiency. If moving towards the status quo is the end result (rather than above and beyond), it may be setting the bar too low and in turn stifling innovation. I think I'm overanalyzing it a bit, but that was my gut reaction.
  • Understands the differences between teaching online and teaching face-to-face
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 17 Jan 11
       
      This understanding is certainly enhanced by 7.1 - "Has experienced online learning from the perspective of a student" Having taken an online class, I am more aware of challenges students might face and have a greater appreciation of how skillful instructors anticipate and address potential challenges.
    • Julie Foltz
      Julie Foltz on 21 Jan 11
       
      I agree with you, Mary, that having had meaningful learning online is helpful to an instructor in both designing and facilitating an online course!
  • Provides substantive, timely, and constructive feedback to students
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 17 Jan 11
       
      Not meeting this standard is one of the biggest criticisms I hear about online classes. When instructors and students are not in the same room at the same time, the nature and timeliness of feedback takes on a whole new dimension.
    • Jeremy Nally
      Jeremy Nally on 20 Jan 11
       
      I know that sometimes we need to get immediate feedback and this can't always be the case with online classes. We have to find a happy medium so that questions and feedback gets back in a matter that it's still important to the students.
  • Demonstrates techniques for dealing with issues arising from inappropriate student technological use
    • Carla Lee
      Carla Lee on 17 Jan 11
       
      I would be interested in understanding how some of this might be dealt with. This would be something very new to me. Dealing with behavior is one thing...dealing with inappropriate behavior in an on-line class...if it's written down, students certainly can't deny it, can they?
    • Greg Sleep
      Greg Sleep on 20 Jan 11
       
      We have went to one-one laptops in our school. We are in our second year of having laptops for our 6-12 students. We have boot camp for all new students that come into our district. In that boot camp we address appropriate use. We now have a page in our handbook dealing with our laptops. It is still new and our policies will be forever evolving with technology. We do have a scripted policy for inappropriate use and the consequences.
    • Sue Runyon
      Sue Runyon on 21 Jan 11
       
      I think that one of the issues is that what is written down is there and can't be erased! I think this addresses "bullying" - am I right or is that addressed somewhere else?
  • effective instructional strategies
    • Peggy Christensen
      Peggy Christensen on 18 Jan 11
       
      When I see "effective instructional strategies" I think of the Characteristics of Effective Instruction from the Iowa Core.
    • Valerie Jergens
      Valerie Jergens on 21 Jan 11
       
      That is what I have been thinking of lately as well, but I have to wonder what role specific strategies in literacy, math, science, ... will continue to have for Iowa educators. I am worried that this leads to a pendulum swing to only focusing on these and possibly neglecting subject specific things.
  • connectivism
    • Peggy Christensen
      Peggy Christensen on 18 Jan 11
       
      Our Professional Learning Team at Heartland AEA is studying the idea of "connectivism" and how we might use connectivism in our work. I'm trying to wrap my brain around this whole idea of "connectivism."
  • Continuously uses data to evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of instructional strategies
    • Kim Wise
      Kim Wise on 18 Jan 11
       
      I think we often use data to judge student achievement but often fail to use it to look at the effectiveness of instructional strategies. I think that may be a belief system change for some teachers--what I DO may have to be changed instead of "I taught it, they just didn't get it."
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 19 Jan 11
       
      I think you really nailed one of the real problems in education today - teachers expect the students to learn how they learned and how they teach. It is very difficult for them to believe that much of the problem is the effectiveness of the instruction that is delivered. I don't think this is any different that f2f instructional needs.
    • Jeremy Nally
      Jeremy Nally on 20 Jan 11
       
      I agree with both of you. I have heard a lot of people say well they they just don't get. Well maybe it's not them that's not getting it, maybe they just need to try to deliver the material a different way. I know that sometimes I can get my mind set that my way is the only way and that I need to remember that students learn a variety of ways.
    • Valerie Jergens
      Valerie Jergens on 21 Jan 11
       
      I think the information we use to judge the effectiveness of our instructional strateiges is often misaligned. We may be using a test of pure content knowledge to judge the effectiveness of our science instruction, when Inquiry instruction has so many more goals than content attainment.
    • r kleinow
      r kleinow on 21 Jan 11
       
      test
  • Creates a learning community that encourages collaboration and interaction, including student-teacher, student-student, and student-content (SREB D.2, Varvel VII.B, ITS 6.a)
    • Mike Bevelacqua
      Mike Bevelacqua on 18 Jan 11
       
      Diggo goes much further with the Social Networking capabilities than other Social Bookmarking tools that I have looked at previously. Seems that the use of Diigo as a teaching practice has the potential of exposing students to this standard.
  • understands how to teach the content to students
    • Mike Bevelacqua
      Mike Bevelacqua on 18 Jan 11
       
      This is important because we are always talking about content with standards...here this document is talking about how we teach...what have proven practices produce results.
    • Martha Condon
      Martha Condon on 19 Jan 11
       
      I think this is truly essential for online learning (for all learning, really). We've all been in classrooms, presentations, etc. in which the teacher/presenter was highly knowledgeable in the content but did not know how to teach the content to others. I believe online teaching requires additional precision in the "how" to teach. We must be cautious in the tools, methods, applications, etc. we utilize to best enhance participants' learning.
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 21 Jan 11
       
      Mike, I am curious if you see a difference in the pedagogical content knowledge a facilitator must have in a face to face classroom environment and that required in an online classroom environment?
    • Matt Townsley
      Matt Townsley on 21 Jan 11
       
      good point, Mike. we can't forget the "how." This is why I like the Iowa Core framework...both "what" and "how."
  • engage students
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 19 Jan 11
       
      Important here that we not only engage their "doing" but also engage their "thinking".
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 20 Jan 11
       
      Glad you brought this up as I can often see the 'thinking' in the online venue; but struggle to see the 'doing'. This is where we want to learn to upload videos as evidence.
    • Greg Sleep
      Greg Sleep on 20 Jan 11
       
      I feel that motivation of students through online teaching is somewhat of a different animal then direct contact instruction. How do you really know what motivates some when it is impersonal to some extinct.
  • appropriate
    • Philip Giltner
      Philip Giltner on 19 Jan 11
       
      I think that "appropriate" is a very key word to consider for online learning. The technologies introduced need to make sense and have a purpose. For example, just because so many people have ipods and they are "cool", the use of ipods would need to make educational sense and not just because they are cool. I was a computer programmer in the corporate world and I all too often saw applications that had eye capturing "bells & whistles" but did not contribute to the objective of the application. All too often these things were added because they could be done, not because they served a purpose. So the question that needs to be asked when introducing a technology is does it serve its purpose?
  •  Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies
  • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies
  • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies (SREB B.5)
  • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies (SREB B.5)
  • • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies (SREB B.5)
  • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies (SREB B.5)
  • • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies
  • 7Has experienced onl in e learning from the perspective of a student
  • cognitivism
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 20 Jan 11
       
      I was curiuos about this term...so I looked it up and found; "Cognitivism often takes a computer information processing model. Learning is viewed as a process of inputs, managed in short term memory, and coded for long-term recall. Cindy Buell details this process: "In cognitive theories, knowledge is viewed as symbolic mental constructs in the learner's mind, and the learning process is the means by which these symbolic representations are committed to memory."
  • models clear expectations for appropriate behavior and proper interaction (SREB D.6, ITS 6.b)
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 20 Jan 11
       
      My experience with facilitating online courses in the past indicates that this criteria, when done effectively, can be the reason learners 'stick with' an online course.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 20 Jan 11
       
      Sticky note - OLLIE
  • Establishes standards for student behavior that are designed to ensure academic integrity
    • Steve Van Gundy
      Steve Van Gundy on 21 Jan 11
       
      I'm guessing it's pretty easy for students to copy and paste from a website and thus end up plagerizing something. I think that is what this is addressing. I taught math and didn't have my students write papers, but I'm wondering what kinds of standards (and penalties) other teachers have when a student has obviously plagerized something.
  • Networks with others involved in online education for the purpose of professional growth
    • Julie Foltz
      Julie Foltz on 21 Jan 11
       
      I find it takes networking with others at times to learn the 'buttonology' as well as the content!
  • appropriate for online learning
    • Julie Foltz
      Julie Foltz on 21 Jan 11
       
      Throughout this document "appropriate for online learning" appears. To me this means that most are a good practice in any instruction but may need adaptations to improve efficacy online.
  • techniques
    • Julie Foltz
      Julie Foltz on 21 Jan 11
       
      A couple years ago I (and my team) took a course for online facilitation. In that course we learned about the importance of online 'voice'. The tone of online communication with students is critical and words must be chosen carefully so that communication is clear and succinct.
  • Understands student motivation
  • Knows the content of the subject to be taught
  • written communication
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Jan 11
       
      Sample note
  • University of Illinois (Virgil Varvel)
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Jan 11
       
      Sample note
  • Eldon Bird on 20 Jan 11
     
    self-assessment and pre-assessment within courses Participant self-assessment is so critical at mulitple points - summative assessments are definitely not FOR learning
  • bdowney on 01 Nov 17
     
    Technology is contstantly changing. How can a teacher stay current and teach with fidelity?
anonymous

Implementation in a Secondary Classroom (Articles) - 0 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by anonymous on 24 Feb 16 - No Cached
  • “We have all these different methods of how kids can present the project, for example, through Photo Story, xtra normal (an animation site where kids create their own animations), PowerPoints, vodcasts, podcasts.
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 24 Feb 16
       
      My biggest struggle with this is the lack of technology knowledge that my students possess. This type of learning would definitely have to begin and be supported at lower levels of education in order to find success at the secondary level. My students know how to use technology for social means but have very little experience with academic applications and websites. We struggle with giving them individual learning opportunities because of the excessive amount of time we have to spend explaining how to use these resources rather than actually applying/demonstrating their learning.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 27 Feb 16
       
      I agree with your comment completely. I would love to give individuals the opportunity to create their final project in multiple formats. Unfortunately, it requires both them and me to be well versed on each of the options. The individuals I teach are so afraid to hit the wrong button, time constraints and lack of experience play a huge role as to what I can offer for options within the classroom.
  • For example, when a teacher assigns a research project, some students will prefer to have a broad range of topics, others will prefer a small list of options, and yet others will prefer to be told what to do. Giving students a short list of topics with an option to create their own topic, with the teacher’s approval, often works well.
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 24 Feb 16
       
      I definitely find this to be true in my own classroom. I have some students who can come up with great, original applications and products to demonstrate their learning. However, I have others who would simply choose to do nothing or throw a project together last minute if it is not clearly laid out for them. I want to strive to be better about fostering a sense of independence in my students' learning and not simply spoon-feed them all of the information that they need. Ultimately, this is going to allow them to be the most successful after leaving school. Now, I just need to figure out the best way to do that!
  • Some students chose to remain at their desks, others crawled under the desks, and still others found comfortable places elsewhere.
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 24 Feb 16
       
      I give my students this choice at all times; I have tables, chairs, bean bags, a couch, and two cushioned chairs in my classroom. I don't care if students sit at these locations or even on the floor (though under a desk may not be the best choice!) as long as they are working productively. Most classes want to continue to have this privilege, so they are typically very respectful of our classroom-established norms for behavior.
  • ...12 more annotations...
  • Once teachers have planned their methods and strategies, they can fit their work into a timeline. Because the design is flexible and students are responsible for taking charge of their own learning, coverage of the content is ensured and depth of understanding is achieved
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 24 Feb 16
       
      I would like to see an example of such a timeline for a secondary English classroom. I understand the concept but would love to see it in full application to gauge how I can make this work in my own classroom. It seems like a good idea to also have students keep some sort of reflective journal tracking their progress as well. This can be beneficial for the student and the teacher in guiding/creating future tasks.
  • The screencasts, which I create with Zaption, Screencast-o-matic and Video Ant,
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 24 Feb 16
       
      It seems like this type of learning would require a lot of technology support for both teachers and students; technology courses and/or training would be really helpful for all involved in the personalized learning process.
  • “One of the things I had to learn recently was to let go and allow the kids to experience the consequences of their choices. And maybe there’s a failure.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 25 Feb 16
       
      This is something I'm struggling with, particularly with my group of middle schoolers.  They're really good at "looking busy" but then I discover they really aren't.  I think this is something that easier to fix at the beginning of the year when they don't know any different than it would be at this point in the school year.  Will this ever be fixed 100%?  I would say frequent checkins or ways for them to demonstrate their progress/learning.  Just something I keep thinking about...
  • They’ll have to post a couple of responses—and post a couple of responses to responses— as part of the class. That’s going to get them trading ideas about the literature we read in class.”
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 25 Feb 16
       
      ELA info!!!  Yeah!  I was wondering if this would be an appropriate activity to use for the speaking and listening standards or do those have to be assessed in an actual vocal conversation?  They'd be responding and building upon others' ideas?  But I wasn't sure if this would be one way to do that?
  • But I was simply using technology in place of my normal face-to-face teaching. When asked to explain the “why” behind my choices during professional learning sessions, I realized there was more to creating blended lessons than simply adding technology.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 25 Feb 16
       
      This is where I'm at with implementing PL (or more specifically, blended learning).  While this may help students learn at their own pace, it doesn't really help differentiate much else.  We have to start somewhere.
  • 5. Assess as you go.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 25 Feb 16
       
      This is a huge part of our professional development this year, but the ELA teachers are having a hard time managing the formative assessments because it's not easy to assess ELA in multiple choice questions.  We're finding a few resources that help with question stems for DOK levels and Bloom's but it's not as easy for us as it may be for science or math.  We're getting there though...there's a light at the end of the tunnel at least.
  • Low motivation does not need to be a recurring problem in the classroom.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 25 Feb 16
       
      I'm nervous about this aspect, but I feel the more blended or PL that they've experienced the better it will be.  Think back to when we first started using Google Docs and all the explicit instruction we had to do to create and share a simple document, and now the kids know more than I do.  I feel this is where PL will go.  The more this type of learning is the norm, the less they'll question or resist it.
  • Teachers must identify the big ideas in their content area, establish essential questions to guide the students toward these ideas, determine what students will need to know and be able to do to thoroughly understand the ideas, then create appropriate tools to assess whether the students are learning what they need to know. Classroom assessments for personalized teaching are always varied, ongoing, and carefully designed to give the teacher useful information from multiple perspectives. Collectively, the measures provide feedback on where students still have misconceptions, where they are learning and applying skills, and where they are recalling and using information effectively.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 25 Feb 16
       
      This is right where we are as a department, so I feel it's natural to implement some PL (blended).  Start small where it makes sense and build as you can; that's the only way to do this successfully.
  • Units of study in each learning community are planned around the “big ideas” in each subject area and often have interdisciplinary ramifications.
  • Once they feel ready, they can submit their analysis by writing a traditional essay, creating a website, or writing a script for a video that they then record.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 27 Feb 16
       
      I like what this says about how writing does not always need to be in essay form. I also like how the writer points out that there are several ways students can express what they have learned. My main question is: when do students "feel they are ready?" Eventually, grades are due, how does one motivate those who are not just paced slowly.
  • The more meaningful an activity is to the person engaging in it, the more likely he or she will be motivated to continue doing it. A sense of purposefulness or meaningfulness is also heightened if the activity strengthens relationships with others.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 27 Feb 16
       
      I have always encouraged the kids to ask why they are to do some task. They now are sure to ask how their [writing] task will apply to them later. I tell them the practical application of analysis or persuasion. Sometimes it is just an extension to high school or college, other times it is a real life application. Either way, I think making the project relevant and purposeful gives them more of a buy in.
  • Almost all teachers find it emotionally fulfilling and personally energizing when students begin to succeed, especially where they have previously failed.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 27 Feb 16
       
      Personalized learning also helps the student take control of their learning. I think they also feel pride when they succeed in areas they have previously failed. 
Chad Jilek

online1: Iowa Online Course Standards - 10 views

205.221.40.124/...view.php

shared by Chad Jilek on 15 Sep 10 - No Cached
    • ksteingr
      ksteingr on 15 Sep 10
       
      What information do we have about this group? Looks like the research is very new - http://www.inacol.org/research/reports.php Makes it sound like deep undercover reporting, but I was just curious. I had never heard of INACOL. :-)
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 18 Sep 10
       
      iNACOL was originally NACOL (they went "international" in 2008). They have been around about 8 years now, and are recognized as the national leader in organizations build around quality online learning. They are analogous to an ASCD. In Iowa, Gwen Nagel from Iowa Learning Online is a member and contributor, as is Marcel Kielkucki, director of Kirkwood Community College's High School Distance Learning Program. Marcel and Gwen presented last November at iNACOL's conference on the current setup of online learning in Iowa. You are going to find that most research in online learning is extremely new. The reseach du jour is comparing online to F2F, in which case there are many (many!) studies that have come out. None of the studies are older than 2006, and most have come in the last 18 months.
  • The course instruction includes activities that engage students in active learning. • Instruction provides students with multiple learning paths to master the content, addressing individual student needs, learning styles and preferences.
    • Janet Kinman
      Janet Kinman on 15 Sep 10
       
      Engagement at a level you would expect in a traditional classroom is key. Online instruction has to be differentiated, and not a "dump" of information.
    • Phyllis Anderson
      Phyllis Anderson on 23 Jan 11
       
      Online instruction might more readily provide an environment in which students can take different paths for learning.I am thinking it might be easier to incorporate UDL (Universal Design for Learning) in this environment.
  • The course makes maximum appropriate use of online tools outside of the CMS (including email, web 2.0, chat, videoconferencing, and whiteboard) to enhance learning
    • Pam Buysman
      Pam Buysman on 17 Sep 10
       
      Moodle certainly has a number of built in tools for the course developer to to use. There is an internal blog and wiki available, but perhaps, wikis and blogs that are available outside of Moodle will better serve the needs of the participants. We need to choose what is most appropriate to meet the objectives of our course. What will best enhance the learning experience for our students? In order to do that of course, we'll need to have an awareness and also a certain amount of expertise to have students utilize these tools.
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      I agree--we need a certain amount of expertise. It's so discouraging to participants when the tools we're trying to use don't work as expected.
    • linda vann
      linda vann on 22 Jan 11
       
      Just as in a face-to-face classroom, there are techniques for engaging learning. Those techniques need to be mastered in order to be effective. The same with online tools - they must be mastered and understood in order to effective. The great news with any learning is that it is quite collaborative - students learn from teachers as much as teachers learn from students. I think this is certainly true in the online environment.
    • Corrine Breitsprecker
      Corrine Breitsprecker on 24 Jan 11
       
      The added challenge is that there are new tools constantly available. Keeping up on the new tools and their uses worries me!
  • ...14 more annotations...
  • Proposed Online Course Standards
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      Evan, are these the standards that will be used to vet proposed courses for the statewide moodle through Heartland? At AEA 267 we were discussing how course proposals would be evaluated and approved.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 27 Jan 11
       
      Yes and no. The standards will be used for instructional designers/instructors as they build courses, and by evaluators as they review courses. But they are not formally part of the course proposal process.
  • STUDENT ASSESSMENT
    • Drinda Williams
      Drinda Williams on 16 Jan 11
       
      This is one that I'm finding somewhat challenging. If I am asking teachers to implement, how do I provide sufficient feedback? Reading a lesson plan is not the same as seeing them implement. I'm wondering if AEA consultants around the state might cooperate in some observations.
    • Jason Martin-Hiner
      Jason Martin-Hiner on 17 Jan 11
       
      Here's an idea: digital video of the teacher in the classroom that could be submitted/uploaded to the course site (i.e. the ever-popular Flip video). Feedback could be given by using an audio overlay of the video (almost like the audio commentary track on a DVD) or posting comments to a forum (if it was group feedback).
    • linda vann
      linda vann on 22 Jan 11
       
      I have actually used that technique as a student in a online course. We (class members) were able to provide feedback to each other on the submitted videos. We posted comments to a discussion board, we did not have the technology at that time to use an audio overlay. It was very effective and quite entertaining to get lots of different perspectives on our experiences.
    • Valerie Jergens
      Valerie Jergens on 24 Jan 11
       
      Linda- Were you given a rubric or other reference to compare other students' work against? I wonder if without something like that, if students would give the "nice job" and "great" feedback instead of something more constructive and meaningful. How do you guard against that?
  • students to engage in higher-order thinking, critical-reasoning activities and thinking in increasingly complex ways.
    • Peggy Christensen
      Peggy Christensen on 18 Jan 11
       
      In science, we are always looking for ways to engage students in higher-order thinking skills. I'm sure it provides different challenges when you are teaching online.
    • Steve Bartlett
      Steve Bartlett on 21 Jan 11
       
      I would agree that engagement with online is a challenge when I compare it to engagement in an inquiry based lesson where there is active interaction between students working with hands on materials.
  • clear, complete course overview and syllabus
    • Peggy Christensen
      Peggy Christensen on 18 Jan 11
       
      Because you are not face-to-face (or if you are teaching a blended/hybrid course and have limited face-to-face interaction), you need to make sure your course overview and syllabus are clear and complete.
    • Valerie Jergens
      Valerie Jergens on 24 Jan 11
       
      Right, Peggy. I think in the classroom I have relied on students' questions as a way to help me describe what I am thinking/asking for. In an online environment, this doesn't work. It would be a lot more pressure for me as the teacher.
  • timely and frequent feedback about student progress based on the learning targets.
    • Eldon Bird
      Eldon Bird on 19 Jan 11
       
      How important is this! Probably even more important today when students are accustomed to instant feedback whenever they access technology.
    • Steve Bartlett
      Steve Bartlett on 21 Jan 11
       
      Feedback along the way is so important especially when one is not sure they are on the right path to meeting a targeted goal
    • Kelsey Bova
      Kelsey Bova on 22 Jan 11
       
      It is also important to not only give instant feedback along the way, but MEANINGFUL feedback. Students don't get anything out of a "good job!" or "nicely done!" I always have to put myself in the students' shoes and think of what meaningful feedback I would like and make it specific towards that individual student and his/her work.
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 07 Feb 11
       
      I agree, Kelsey, it is important to give meaningful feedback. It is so difficult to keep up with students when the numbers reach 175-180, as they are beginning to in my district.
  • (CP) • The course provider offers the course teacher, school coordinator assistance with technical support and course management.
    • Erica Larson
      Erica Larson on 20 Jan 11
       
      I am curious who provides will provide this support in future OLLIE courses?
  • 21st century skills
    • James Webb
      James Webb on 21 Jan 11
       
      21st Century Skills has become something of a hollow buzz word to me, I'm afraid. Is it just a matter of aligning traditional thinking with new technology? Or is there something "new" here that I'm missing? And how much direction do you think students need with technology itself? How much of this in intuitive with them?
    • Phyllis Anderson
      Phyllis Anderson on 23 Jan 11
       
      Our 21st C. Iowa Core Skills include more than technology skills. They also include concepts and skills in civic literacy, health literacy, employability, and financial literacy. Do the additional areas make 21st. C Skills seem less hollow?
    • James Webb
      James Webb on 23 Jan 11
       
      I suppose. I get the concept, and I want to believe, but I feel like these are things they've always needed to know. Are we just re-naming what we're already doing?
    • Alan Junck
      Alan Junck on 24 Jan 11
       
      And how much will these change in the next 10 years? It seems like we need to teach more about being flexible in regards to technology.
  • instructor-student and student-student interaction to foster mastery and application of the material and a plan for monitoring that interaction.
    • linda vann
      linda vann on 23 Jan 11
       
      The need for formative assessment continues to be vital in the online environment so mastery can be monitored and adjustments made when mastery is being challenged. As an online learner, it is important for me to know in advance what supports are available when I need them.
  • Ongoing and frequent assessments are conducted to verify each student’s readiness for the next lesson.
    • linda vann
      linda vann on 23 Jan 11
       
      It seems that the ongoing and frequent assessment process is critical and I believe actually a bit easier in the online environment. The ease comes from the direct nature of the interaction between instructor-student and student-student interactions. Sometimes in a crowded F2F classroom, this can be more challenging.
    • Christopher Soldat
      Christopher Soldat on 03 Feb 11
       
      In a classroom setting, formative assessment would inform the classroom teachers thinking about instruction for the next part of the unit. How will that look in an online asynchronous learning environment?
  • The course is organized into units and lessons.
    • Jeny Schoenhard
      Jeny Schoenhard on 24 Jan 11
       
      This stands out for me because I feel that sometimes as educators we get excited about a new teaching tool or method and it is so important to remember to provide manageable portions for our students so that they are not overwhelmed and have the ability to completely understand an area of learning.
  • Assessment strategies and tools, such as "self-check" or practice assignments, make the student continuously aware of his/her progress in class and mastery of the content beyond letter grades.
    • Jeny Schoenhard
      Jeny Schoenhard on 24 Jan 11
       
      What a fantastic benefit to students! Self Check and practice assignments are a wonderful tool to use so that student know when they are on the right track.
  • The course instructions articulate or link to a clear description of the technical support offered.
    • Corrine Breitsprecker
      Corrine Breitsprecker on 24 Jan 11
       
      This is really important! My work has been with adult learners rather than school-age students, and I think adults are more tentative and less comfortable just "trying things out" with technology that is new to them. Whether adult or school-age, learners need to know that there is technical support available when needed and how to get that help.
  • Instructions to students on how to meet the learning objectives are adequate and stated clearly.
    • Chad Jilek
      Chad Jilek on 10 Feb 12
       
      I have taken online courses where these weren't clear and those courses were not fun. When someone is not there to answer all your questions the student needs to have the expectations layed out with a good amount of detail.
  • The course is easy and logical to navigate, including self-describing links
    • Chad Jilek
      Chad Jilek on 10 Feb 12
       
      Most students that take an online course will have no problem nagivating through it but there will be times when it is a students first time with online learning or have to take the course online out of necessity and if the technology aspect of the learning is difficult the learning outcomes probably won't be very good.
  • Janet Kinman on 15 Sep 10
     
    This is a key piece to online instruction. If you just dump all your materials online, this is not effective online teaching.
  • linda vann on 23 Jan 11
     
    "instructor-student and student-student interaction to foster mastery and application of the material and a plan for monitoring that interaction. "
  • Christopher Soldat on 03 Feb 11
     
    "instructor-student and student-student interaction to foster mastery and application of the material and a plan for monitoring that interaction. "
anonymous

Adaptive Learning System Articles - 1 views

moodlesw.aealearningonline.org/...view.php

shared by anonymous on 06 Apr 18 - No Cached
  • adaptive learning products in their current state is as tutors
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 06 Apr 18
       
      Interesting comparison that adaptive learning products are like tutors.  Comprehensive programming guides the student depending on correct/incorrect answers to questions on specific topics.  Teachers might not catch that a student would benefit from reteach or additional practice as quickly as a comprehensive program.  Thus freeing the teacher to monitor, facilitate, and assist students as needed while the program leads students through the lesson based on their understanding of the concept.  
  • adaptive learning systems are not magic.
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 06 Apr 18
       
      Important statement to remember adaptive learning systems are not end all - beat all.  They won't solve every problem but choosing best fit for school's needs can improve teaching efficiency and increase learning if implemented with integrity.
  • risk damaging the credibility of faculty while denying students support that could improve their chances of success
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      Ahhh.. if we could get over ourselves and do what is best for students.  Each student should receive what is needed to help them succeed.  Personal health issues for me have cemented this more than ever.  I can't study, read, or complete work like I did before.  I choose to keep trying but without changing lighting on my screen or turning blue light off I wouldn't be able to read this article.  How much do our students struggle that have not been identified and receive adaptive technology?  
  • ...25 more annotations...
  • on-demand data aggregating that information.
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      Isn't this what we have been talking about for at least a decade?  Let's get that data in the most efficient way so we can help students… work smarter not harder (that's said for students and staff).
    • Jen Van Fleet
      Jen Van Fleet on 08 Apr 18
       
      I once did a demo of GoFormative's ability to gauge students' progress toward or beyond mastery of learning targets, and a teacher in the room nearly hugged me in response to the potential of recouping some time going forward.
  • Students can also get a clearer idea of when they’re ready to move on.
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      This is important to students but also to parents/guardians.  I had parents in my office yesterday with real, valid concerns about their child's grades.  Real-time response keeps everyone involved apprised of the learning or lack of it.
  • only communication they may have with students is via email and Skype
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      I have benefited from synchronized meetings in classes during this program.  I can only imagine how much more students and teacher benefits from adaptive learning especially online.
  • they’ll be able to focus on the right work.
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      This comment strongly resinates with me.  I cringe thinking of years I probably didn't have students working on right work because I didn't know better. Students that showed mastery early that should have been challenged with deeper level learning or some real-world application of the skill.  Big sigh… at least we know better now.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 24 Apr 18
       
      I noticed this when I made the transition from my personal lessons to EverFi. They focused on what the students' needs were.
  • you should plan today for success with tomorrow’s technology.
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      That sure hits it on the nail head.  Tech is changing and advancing every minute of every day.  We still work on computers considered dinosaurs, desktops that do not allow for being portable learners or flexible learning groups.  Funding is a major issue and willingness to plan for future tech could be difficult for change makers.  At least there are trailblazers out there leading the way.
  • Adding the tech makes it possible to personalize at scale
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      That is a great statement.  I hadn't thought of it that way. Of course we, as teachers are/should be providing ways for individual students to succeed.  But adding tech and the ability to efficiently personalize needs (time, data-driven) in large numbers shows greater impact.
  • "We should build the technology around the teachers to empower them and put them at the center of the story.
    • brarykat
      brarykat on 07 Apr 18
       
      I personally have worked hard for my degrees.  I think Ben-Naim has a valid point in keeping the teacher center to learning.  Maybe the teacher needs to be intuitive enough to recognize when to be center, when to pull back, and when to facilitate.
    • tifinif
      tifinif on 09 Apr 18
       
      I think for more teachers to be on board with PLE we need to emphasize that the teacher is still key to the learning. Tech can be a great assistant in helping to suppliment what needs to be learned or give opportunities for enrichment.
  • The root of the problem is not the adaptive technology itself so much as the belief that a “good” education is entirely quantifiable and therefore manageable by computer.
    • Mike Radue
      Mike Radue on 07 Apr 18
       
      As with other issues in our culture, there is a tendency to take things to the extremes when what is truly needed is a balance somewhere towards the middle. The best education is leveraged with technology and teachers working in concert.
    • Jen Van Fleet
      Jen Van Fleet on 08 Apr 18
       
      Agreed. Not to mention that if as educators we put all our stock into an adaptive program and thus ourselves in auto pilot, we've teched ourselves right out of relevance. Teacher knowledge of students and the ability to craft an educational experience that could and should include but not be limited to adaptive technology is the key.
  • Adaptive learning technology helps online students make sure they use their learning time as efficiently and productively as possible.
    • Mike Radue
      Mike Radue on 07 Apr 18
       
      I think this comment speaks to one of the biggest benefits of adaptive learning which is maximizing learner's and teacher's time. Adaptive learning helps both parties zone in on what gaps need to be filled and what concepts expanded for example.
    • tifinif
      tifinif on 09 Apr 18
       
      Exactly! This keeps kids moving forward and engaged.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Apr 18
       
      I agree with both of you. Adaptive learning zeros in on what the student knows and doesn't know about a concept. The data helps the teacher focus instruction on what the student needs.
  • To be clear, when we say “adaptive learning” we are referring to it as both a concept and a tool.
    • Mike Radue
      Mike Radue on 07 Apr 18
       
      This is a good way to describe adaptive learning. The concepts have been the subject of much discussion/research for years but as we know technology improves at a much faster rate. Our technical capabilities are expanding faster than we can apply concepts effectively one could argue. The proliferation of options, platforms, systems has given rise to a robust industry/economy related to adaptive learning.
  • "Our partners are the experts in their target market," noted David Kuntz, vice president of research and adaptive learning at Knewton. "They create the application and pass us the data. We process that data and make a set of actionable inferences about the students, and then pass those back to the application, and the partner decides how and when to render those for the student."
    • Mike Radue
      Mike Radue on 07 Apr 18
       
      I find this business model very interesting. Experts focused on a specific aspect of a project all contributing to supporting the success of learners. I marvel at the programmer's ability to write algorithms to make decisions and create learning pathways adapted to the learner's needs.
  • The better approach, from both educational and labor perspectives, is to examine each tool on a case-by-case basis with an open mind, insist on demystifying explanations of how it works, embrace the tools that make educational sense, and think hard about how having them could empower you to be a better teacher and provide your students with richer educational experiences.
    • Jen Van Fleet
      Jen Van Fleet on 08 Apr 18
       
      Definitely. It doesn't have to be an us vs them mentality. Allowing technology to automate some of the work that bogs us down on the daily allows us to use our face to face time with students in the best way possible.
  • especially at times when a professor isn’t available to give help.
    • Jen Van Fleet
      Jen Van Fleet on 08 Apr 18
       
      I love that our students/teachers with obligations after school can use adaptive tech to continue a shared mission despite schedules.
  • who is doing well, who is struggling on which concepts, and what areas are most difficult for the class as a whole.
    • tifinif
      tifinif on 09 Apr 18
       
      For this reason, I like that lessons can be adaptive. Think about the kid who has mastered the lesson who should be able to move on but can't because the teacher has to help those who don't understand. The kid that "has it" will become bored. This is a great way to challenge kids as well has help give help to those who need it.
  • tive tech can help them get past those hurdles with a little extra help, or can alert the teacher in time to step in, so those students are more likely to receive their diplomas.
    • tifinif
      tifinif on 09 Apr 18
       
      What adaptive technolies are offered at the college level? Are they free to students or do they pay? I can see this as being beneficial for those students who work jobs, go to school and even have a family to take care of.
  • Teachers won’t have to work individually with students for hours to assess which skills each student needs help with,
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Apr 18
       
      This is definitely a pro argument for adaptive learning because teachers can view student reports to learn what concepts in whichj students are struggling. Then they can target their small group instruction to those students and concepts.
  • The data produced by adaptive learning tech allows faculty to steer those conversations in the directions most important to helping the student succeed.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Apr 18
       
      In online learning, this can be a real time benefit to both the teacher and the student. Questions and conversations can be focused on what is most important.
  • Personalization in teaching and learning happens best when content delivery, assessment, and mastery are “adapted” to meet students’ unique needs and abilities.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Apr 18
       
      This statement does a good job of connecting personalized and adaptive learning. Content delivery, assessment, and mastery can be adapted and personalized to meet the needs of the student.
  • Imagine if every student in your class could have a private tutor, available to them at any time for as long as they need.
    • hansenn
      hansenn on 10 Apr 18
       
      Yes, adaptive learning products will act as private tutors for some of the students, but I don't think it will the same for all students. Some students would need that personal touch from a real person to get motivated. I think it would be more inportant for younger students to have interaction with a real person.
  • Do you trust the tutor to teach the right
    • hansenn
      hansenn on 10 Apr 18
       
      You would have to spend a while testing out the products to see, which one would work the best for your students and your class. Especially when some of them are so costly. Who would you have test out the products? I would think it would be teachers who have taught the material before.
  • Adaptive technology can follow a student’s progress as they work and recognize which concepts they’ve mastered and in which areas they need further instruction.
    • hansenn
      hansenn on 10 Apr 18
       
      The quick feedback would help the student to understand what they know and what they do not know. Teachers cannot provide feedback as fast and then change the instruction as the adaptive technologies. With larger class sizes it would be nearly impossible to provide quick feedback without the help of Tech.
  • Institutions around the world are engaged in serious explorations of the potential of an approach to instruction and remediation that uses technology
    • hansenn
      hansenn on 10 Apr 18
       
      I would think all kinds of companies would be interested in adaptive technologies to help educate their employees. If you added in some VR the adaptive learning tech could add in some real world learning like simulators.
  • Help teachers adapt lessons.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 24 Apr 18
       
      I found this to be true with EverFi / Ignition. It serves as a supplement to my lessons.
  • next generation solution many institutions would benefit greatly from adopting
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 24 Apr 18
       
      It may be difficult for my generation to comprehend this. It's our students who will be the ones with the next uniquely better innovation.
  • adaptive learning is that it frees up faculty members to spend more time with students, to work with them in small groups and individually
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 24 Apr 18
       
      I can relate with this. Students who aren't afraid to fail will get the furthest with the least amount of teacher help. They work very well independently. Others who may have the "fear of failing" may need more teacher assistance. Adaptive learning frees me up to help those in need.
LaRae Arment

Implementation in a Secondary Classroom (Articles) - 1 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by LaRae Arment on 19 Jun 17 - No Cached
  • It is a messier way to teach, though it takes more organization on the teacher’s part, not less.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 19 Jun 17
       
      Reality statement here. This is probably the biggest hurdle for teachers. It's a lot easier to lecture and control than it is for the students to lead the way and the teacher to augment that. I think it's worth it because the kids are more engaged and enthusiastic and the learning is much more long-term.
  • Not every program lends itself to choice, of course, but even then there are opportunities.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 19 Jun 17
       
      That's a good point, too. It doesn't have to be completely open-ended with total release to students. I think this idea (in the paragraph) is an especially good way to start working toward personalization.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think this is also a tough thing for teachers - knowing where to tip the balance between choice and prescriptive learning. Also, I fear this is a bit of a trial and error process. I am not afraid to fall flat but I am afraid to give students a bad experience.
  • adapt to whatever tools are available
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 19 Jun 17
       
      I like this point because this is a road block for people. Technology is available to some extent in each school, so use what you got instead of worrying about what you don't have. Technology is a tool, not a replacement.
  • ...38 more annotations...
  • Let students make choices.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 19 Jun 17
       
      I like this section in total. It has some solid examples. I also liked the first line here about starting off by trying to control but realizing it made more sense to frontload and release.
  • The more meaningful an activity is to the person engaging in it, the more likely he or she will be motivated to continue doing it.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 19 Jun 17
       
      This is a good point but one that I feel is difficult to find all the time. With so much content to cover, I think this is a pick and choose battle for teachers. That's probably ok in the end - there's a lesson to learn doing things that aren't fun or engaging but important. I think preaching patience when starting personalization - it will take some time for the whole thing to come together.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 06 Jul 17
       
      YES! Real world application is vital for students to buy in. However, if a teacher doesn't prove that application then students loose interest. I often ask my students how or why do you need to know this. Let them own the application.
  • When you want to give students choice, it is often optimal to give them a limited number of options, but be as flexible as possible
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 19 Jun 17
       
      In my master's program, we called that "the illusion of choice." Here are (three carefully selected) options for completing this task, pick whichever you want. Students that have the ability to make their own decisions will usually provide that if you allow them to propose (and actually consider) something new.
  • Almost all teachers find it emotionally fulfilling and personally energizing when students begin to succeed, especially where they have previously failed.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 20 Jun 17
       
      That's good. A selling point. I'm guessing this is too vague to convince the real naysayers - I'd prefer a reference or a more specific stat than this. This is what makes this style worth it - kids getting into it is more fun than just talking at this for a while.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think because it is such a major shift there need to be some concrete examples of how it could look.
  • Teachers must identify the big ideas in their content area, establish essential questions to guide the students toward these ideas, determine what students will need to know and be able to do to thoroughly understand the ideas, then create appropriate tools to assess whether the students are learning what they need to know. Classroom assessments for personalized teaching are always varied, ongoing, and carefully designed to give the teacher useful information from multiple perspectives. Collectively, the measures provide feedback on where students still have misconceptions, where they are learning and applying skills, and where they are recalling and using information effectively.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 20 Jun 17
       
      This is just an all encompassing paragraph here. I think this should describe teaching regardless of your approach. That's all.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I agree. This is good teaching.
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 29 Jun 17
       
      Ditto!
  • 21st century learning coach
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      One thing that matters, regardless of other circumstances, is where resources are committed. The fact that this position exists reflects the emphasis that this school places on these types of skills.
  • Students are more motivated to do projects than they would have been before
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think it is easy to confuse intrinsic motivation, choice, engagement, and learning. I think these things all go together but isn't as simple as one begets the others. A teacher has to work to build all of these things as well as scaffold student skills to take advantage of those choices.
  • And maybe there’s a failure
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      This requires a great trust both in the teacher and in the process.
  • less work and effort
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think this is part of the problem - I don't want my students going for 'easy'. I realize it isn't actually an easier pathway, however that perception isn't really a growth mindset.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 06 Jul 17
       
      I also fear this as a mindset that my students may have. I also think about this for SBG, if I reach this level then I'm fine with my grade/level of learning (student perspective)
  • giving them ownership and responsibility for their own learning.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think this is the ideal, the gold standard of choice in education.
  • Here are five lessons I have learned that have helped me take my classroom from a traditional sage-on-the-stage affair to a tech-assisted personalized learning haven.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      While I know teachers have varying comfort levels with tech, teaching is doing what is best for students. I believe teachers need to learn about new tools and resources to make this transition.
  • I decided to “release” one piece of the assignment at a time in an effort to control students’ pathway through the material.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think this is a great way to scaffold the learning to become independent learners. I believe this is the path to develop the skills for PL
    • jhenning40
      jhenning40 on 06 Jul 17
       
      I think this type of scaffolding would be very necessary at first, but would phase itself out as students became more used to the process.
  • I realized there was more to creating blended lessons than simply adding technology.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      This could be the motto for every tech PD session I lead
    • jhenning40
      jhenning40 on 06 Jul 17
       
      So true! Technology isn't always the solution. It's a great resource and supplements learning in so many ways, but it's not always the end-all-and-be-all of quality instruction.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 06 Jul 17
       
      I also was drawn to this comment. Technology is something that our students rely on and it isn't always necessary in the classroom to become successful.
  • This transformation is still in its early stages, but it is definitely evolving toward that goal.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I like the use of the word 'evolving'. I think it is essential to understand this process as an evolution. The change won't all take place up front, instead it will be incremental.
  • hat choice is not necessarily a cure-all for lack luster motivation
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      This is exactly what I meant in a post on the first article. Choice isn't the same as engagement or motivation.
  • have control tend to be more motivated
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I wonder what the best way is to show students they have control - should they be told they have it or is there a way to show them? Is it the same if they are told about it?
  • too difficult or too easy
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I love this phrasing. I don't want my students to take the easy path - I want them to pick the right path.
  • Giving students a short list of topics with an option to create their own topic, with the teacher’s approval, often works well.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think this is a great starting point - Students could choose to stay in their comfort zone with the teacher provided prompts or step out and create their own
  • hem a sense of control and may allow them to regulate the difficulty of the task.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      Deadlines are still something I am looking at. I think they have a place to give some structure but I think they need to be flexible.
  • Low motivation does not need to be a recurring problem in the classroom
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I genuinely wonder what teachers said 50 years ago and 30 years ago and so on. Is it real that students are less motivated today than any time previous?
  • well-designed choices
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think well-designed choices is the key phrase of this whole article. It needs to be more than a list of essay questions or project topics.
  • Changing an American Institution(NASSP, 1996)
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      I think it is important to acknowledge the date of this study. This has been a long process of acknowledging the need for changes and making inroads
  • This is not a method, but an art and a talent.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      The art of teaching vs. the science of teaching
  • that practice collaborative leadership within design teams, best practices teams, small learning communities,
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 29 Jun 17
       
      This is a major shift for most schools, including my own. I think the shift starts with the early adopters and they (we) have to build within our systems until we get to a critical mass.
  • personalized teaching is not an isolated, or isolating, phenomenon
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 29 Jun 17
       
      I'm glad to read this; as I head in to a PBL classroom this fall, I wouldn't want to think of learning (personalization) as 115 individual students doing their own thing. This scenario confirms for me what I've know from years of teaching: we all learn more when we learn together.
  • assess their effects, to adjust the approach, and time to assess again”
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 29 Jun 17
       
      A good personal reminder: sometimes I'm moving so fast I forget to assess not only student data, but instructional practices, and a broader sense of engagement and accomplishment. I'm lucky I will have several "critical friends" as NTN calls them to do this assessment with me.
  • student-centered learning environment in which teachers become facilitators, mentors, and coaches, and students become active learners, engaged in cooperative learning, peer tutoring, role-playing, labs, and debates. Movement, imagery, hands-on activity and social interaction become basic instructional strategies.
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 29 Jun 17
       
      I look forward to this model: sound energy-GIVING rather than energy-draining. Also, I'm inspired everyday by my students; I think a PL environment will enhance the levels of inspiration as our students live up to their own potentials and motivations, creating genuine self-worth.
  • 4WH framework
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 29 Jun 17
       
      This is a helpful framework. Another concept this article brings up is "empowerment." Many 9th graders are wanting to assert their independence or more power - structured choices over their academic life seems like a safe and effective way to give them that power (maybe reducing their desire to try more risky behaviors to assert their independence or control???)
  • It is the purposeful design of instruction to combine face-to-face teaching, technology-assisted instruction and collaboration to leverage each student’s learning style and interests for deeper learning.
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 29 Jun 17
       
      Yay! "Face to face" is first - I never want to forget that part of learning (learning from and with one other in person).
  • choice can also, surprisingly, come into play in relation to discipline
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 02 Jul 17
       
      I like this idea, and would like to explore it further!
  • rubric,
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 02 Jul 17
       
      Rubrics and checklists are an important part of personalized learning! They are mentioned time and time again.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 06 Jul 17
       
      I agree with you on this. It also ensures that students know what is expected and I feel that the quality of work will be higher.
  • You really have to be on top of things to allow the students choice
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 02 Jul 17
       
      I can see this because without a clear plan, the classroom would be mass chaos! This idea would make a lot of teachers uncomfortable, but I like the idea of letting the kids being as involved as possible in the lesson- they retain more that way.
  • my students acknowledge that they feel better prepared for college or jobs because of our use of collaborative technology.
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 02 Jul 17
       
      Goal! I like this statement very much.
  • students who appear unmotivated and apathetic
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 02 Jul 17
       
      And this is where problem behavior begins.
  • make their own decisions
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 02 Jul 17
       
      I think with making choices comes the responsibility of teaching the students what making good choices sounds like and looks like too. Expectations must be presented and enforced for this to work.
  • project portfolio
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 02 Jul 17
       
      This is something I'd like to do more exploring with. I like the idea of showcasing your learning instead of a transcript of grades.
  • typical story unit
    • jhenning40
      jhenning40 on 06 Jul 17
       
      I'm curious about the story selection. Does the teacher determine the stories for the whole class to read? Is there a "menu" of stories for students to choose? Are stories grouped or selected for students based on reading level? This is a dilemma for my own classroom.
  • You have to have a principal who understands that when he walks into a room and it’s not silent, it’s okay. And luckily we have that—a principal that supports innovative learning.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 06 Jul 17
       
      I think that having administration support is key for making PL work. Some admins and teachers don't understand the concept and may see a classroom as unstructured when in reality it is structured just in a different way.
cjd203

The Quest for Quality - Educational Leadership - 11 views

www.ascd.org/...The-Quest-for-Quality.aspx

shared by cjd203 on 05 Jun 11 - Cached
  • In the past, few educators, policymakers, or parents would have considered questioning the accuracy of these tests.
    • Denise Krefting
      Denise Krefting on 05 Jun 11
       
      I was a teacher who didn't question cut scores. In fact they made life easier for me- but there really was no real learning beyond the assessment. This transition to continual learning makes so much more sense!
    • denise carlson
      denise carlson on 05 Jun 11
       
      This sentence is so true. I remember bringing home ITBS scores to my parents. As long as the scores were in the 90th percentile or better they were pleased. I don't remember them ever digging deeper to ask the teacher what I actually knew or did not know. To them it was an important test and whatever the results said must have been the truth. I'm glad we're not there anymore.
    • Cindy Blinkinsop
      Cindy Blinkinsop on 07 Jun 11
       
      Very true. We never questioned ITBS or ITED scores - we believed they were the one and only true assessment of a student's abilities. My how things are changing! There are so many factors to consider (region, vocabulary, did the student eat breakfast, did the student get enough rest, etc).
    • Natalie Smithhart
      Natalie Smithhart on 01 Oct 11
       
      I can remember as a child being very worried about my ITBS score, I was never a good test taker and I knew how "important" these tests were. I am glad that these days we use more authentic types of assessments also.
    • Lora Lehmkuhl
      Lora Lehmkuhl on 04 Oct 11
       
      I just reviewed ITED scores with our son. I recently read that ITED scores are closely related to scores one might expect for ACTs. This really worries me as a parent since we have a special needs child whose vision problems have greatly affected his performance in school. He plans to take the ACT test this spring and I know he's not prepared to accept a low score. Convincing him that he needs to take practice tests and study has been really difficult.
  • The assessor must begin with a clear picture of why he or she is conducting the assessment.
    • Denise Krefting
      Denise Krefting on 05 Jun 11
       
      Using this with the concept of backward design shows us how many options all fit together.
    • Joletta Yoder
      Joletta Yoder on 27 Sep 11
       
      I too value the "Begin with the end in mind" method. I find it easier, after establishing learning goals, to determine how I'll assess them then let that direct my method of instruction.
    • Lora Lehmkuhl
      Lora Lehmkuhl on 04 Oct 11
       
      The "end product" might have different meaning to the student. For example, I teach a cooking class and the end product is often the food prepared. It can be difficult to convince the student that a standard muffin has specific characteristics. We review the characteristics before beginning the lab. In the eyes of the student, if it is edible it's just fine! You wouldn't believe how many times students have mixed up baking soda for baking powder and have been completely satisfied with a pancake that tastes like soap.
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      Strangely, after all the staff development, I think some teachers don't know why they are giving certain assessments. Part of this may be that they are philosophically opposed to so much testing but I think there is still a lack of understanding about the concepts being taught: the minutiae are more clear.
  • four categories of learning targets are
    • Julie Townsend
      Julie Townsend on 07 Jun 11
       
      These targets could define four different assessments given quarterly. Don't we give informal assessments that cover some of these targets?
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      I like checklist type information because it helps me to evaluate and plan my own instruction. I can use these criteria to make sure I plan for all these targets in my instruction.
  • ...58 more annotations...
    • Denise Krefting
      Denise Krefting on 05 Jun 11
       
      What is the Iowa Core calling these?
  • Do the results provide clear direction for what to do next?
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      What plan is provided for improvement with the Iowa Assessments?
    • Darin Johnson
      Darin Johnson on 07 Jun 11
       
      I would like to see an efficient, real-world model of such a system.
    • Joletta Yoder
      Joletta Yoder on 27 Sep 11
       
      I would love to see our inservices allow for time to have such reflections on our assessments and allow us to redirect our planning. How much more would we see student growth if we not only reflected and redirected but also shared our observations with colleagues who also have the students (cross-curricular and at the next level) to have growth be specific and continual rather than a 9 month experiment that restarts from Ground Zero the following year!
    • parsonsbrandi
      parsonsbrandi on 09 May 16
       
      Yes! There's so much research that values reflection, and yet it's something that one almost feels "guilty" doing on contract time.
  • Selecting an assessment method that is incapable of reflecting the intended learning will compromise the accuracy of the results.
    • Lori Pearson
      Lori Pearson on 05 Jun 11
       
      This shows how important it is to set your learning targets and then make sure your assessment gives you the information that you are seeking in regards to those targets.
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 06 Jun 11
       
      Without proper training, I'm sure this happens all too often. Teachers often teach and test based on their own experiences and not based on best-practices.
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      If you can't determine an assessment to match your learning target, could it be that your learning target needs revision?
    • Julie Townsend
      Julie Townsend on 07 Jun 11
       
      I couldn't agree with you more! Some teachers refuse to open up to the latest in best practice, assuming that '36' years of teaching for example, has given them enough info to have 'all' the answers. And if the assessment is too difficult to create to match the target, why yes, revise the target. It seems we need to think outside the box, and to remind ourselves to keep updated and in touch with the world.
    • Deb Versteeg
      Deb Versteeg on 12 Jun 11
       
      I think many times, the catch here is the gradebook. Many stakeholders(parents, students, administrators, etc.) have very rigid expectations for grading and equate assessment and grading. Teachers don't know how to manage both effectively, and tend to default to the needs of the gradebook for survival.
    • Lori Pearson
      Lori Pearson on 13 Jun 11
       
      Ah.......the gradebook. I believe you have hit the nail on the head, Deb.
    • Denise Krefting
      Denise Krefting on 05 Jun 11
       
      I have found it useful for another person to look at the assessment. Especially someone in a different curriculum area.
    • Deborah Ausborn
      Deborah Ausborn on 09 Jun 11
       
      That sounds like a good idea. Why, specifically, do you use someone from a different curriculum area? I can think of some ideas, but I don't know if they are the ones you are considering.
  • After defining inference as "a conclusion drawn from the information available,"
    • Denise Krefting
      Denise Krefting on 05 Jun 11
       
      So.. if my rubric says " requires deep thought" and I define or give examples of deep thought would that be better. I am struggling with the use of those words in my rubric- my participants have had not difficulty with the words, I just feel it isn't as specific as maybe I should make it....
    • Julie Townsend
      Julie Townsend on 07 Jun 11
       
      What is the definition of 'deep'?
  • a student might assess how strong his or her thesis statement is by using phrases from a rubric,
    • Lori Pearson
      Lori Pearson on 05 Jun 11
       
      Connection to rubrics in my group during the first week-are the phrases strong and promote further progress in their learning?
    • Darin Johnson
      Darin Johnson on 07 Jun 11
       
      I like the phrase "using phrases from a rubric." I think I'll borrow this idea and phrasing!
  • If we don't begin with clear statements of the intended learning—clear and understandable to everyone, including students—we won't end up with sound assessments.
    • Peggy Christensen
      Peggy Christensen on 06 Jun 11
       
      I remember once writing a test item that had a term in it that my sophomore biology students didn't understand. Some asked me what the word meant, but what about those who were too embarrassed to ask?
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      This helps solidify the Iowa Core characteristic of effective instruction--assessment for learning and why it is part of the Iowa Core.
    • parsonsbrandi
      parsonsbrandi on 09 May 16
       
      I can relate this to my children and the way that my husband and I differ on how we give directions. For example, he may say, "Your job is to be good." To a three and a five year old, "be good" is a very vague term. I might say something along the lines of, "Your job is to listen without interupting me, use good manners like saying, 'please and thank you,' and to sit down while we're eating dinner."
  • Figure 2 (page 18) clarifies which assessment methods are most likely to produce accurate results for different learning targets.
    • Peggy Christensen
      Peggy Christensen on 06 Jun 11
       
      I have seen this chart from Stiggins work before and have found it to be quite useful. This reminds me of why we need to take the written portion to get an Iowa Driver's license, as well as taking Driver's Ed. or taking the Driving portion (of the test) to get a Driver's License. We need to know both the factual "stuff" (like what a STOP sign means), as well as the skill of being able to actually drive a vehicle.
  • new levels of testing that include benchmark, interim, and common assessments.
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 06 Jun 11
       
      And I wonder how much Professional Development teachers (new and old) have been given to support them as they face the new assessment expectations. I think too much is taken for granted...teachers need training if all of this testing and data is to make a real difference for our students.
    • Cheryl Merical
      Cheryl Merical on 07 Jun 11
       
      Totally agree!! Teachers need to know not only how and why they are collecting data.  But how to use the data to make instructional decisions.
  • the use of multiple measures does not, by itself, translate into high-quality evidence.
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 06 Jun 11
       
      Exactly! More is necessarily better.
  • and the students themselves
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 06 Jun 11
       
      I think that we often forget about this part of the equation! I remember all too often getting a computer generated page back with test results that I couldn't understand and I'm sure that this is still happening nationwide. We must not forget that our jargon must be translated to the student and the parent so that all stakeholders are on the same page.
  • test plan.
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 06 Jun 11
       
      And how often do we as teachers fly by the seat of our pants?
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      This takes me back to DWALA training from Heartland AEA years ago. Anyone else remember this?
    • Julie Townsend
      Julie Townsend on 07 Jun 11
       
      We do sometimes, especially when placed into a different level of programming at the end of the school year.
  • noise distractions
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 06 Jun 11
       
      I once had to ask that they stop mowing the grass just outside my classroom window while my students took the FCAT Reading test in Florida...minor details like this can make a HUGE difference for the kids testing! I couldn't believe that my administrators hadn't considered all of the details.
    • terri lamb
      terri lamb on 08 Jun 11
       
      This can be major for some students - I took a professional knnowledge test years ago in an auditorium and the monitors were talking softly at the front but it really carried - they had no idea and I didn't say anything but noise doesn't normally bother me so I know it bothered others.
  • assessment literate
    • jalfaro
      jalfaro on 06 Jun 11
       
      something else that I think is often taken for granted....
    • Cheryl Merical
      Cheryl Merical on 07 Jun 11
       
      Agree. . .another reason for TA for teachers regarding how to not only gather data, but understand how to use it.
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      Here lies a bigger problem than we want to acknowledge.
  • Clear Learning Targets
    • Sandy Kluver
      Sandy Kluver on 06 Jun 11
       
      When I first read Stiggins and Chappius' works, it was clear that targets need to be static... not moving! We can't expect students to hit a moving target.
    • Lori Pearson
      Lori Pearson on 13 Jun 11
       
      If you don't know where you're going, how can you get there?
  • function CheckKaLogin() { if (getQuerystring('kalogin') != "") { window.location.href = window.location.href.replace('?kalogin=1', ''); } } function getQuerystring(key, default_) { if (default_==null) default_=""; key = key.replace(/[\[]/,"\\\[").replace(/[\]]/,"\\\]"); var regex = new RegExp("[\\?&]"+key+"=([^&#]*)"); var qs = regex.exec(window.location.href); if(qs == null) return default_; else return qs[1]; } window.onload = function() { if (getQuerystring('kalogin') != "" ) { // window.location.href = window.location.href.replace('?kalogin=1', ''); //alert('kalogin'); } } .smallf { font-size:9px; } MEMBER SIGN IN Username / Customer ID / E-mail Password Forgot your Username or Password? JOIN ASCD &nbsp;|&nbsp;MEMBER BENEFITS Register for ASCD EDge &nbsp; var userNameField='dnn_ctr898_ViewLoginModule_txtUserName';var passwordField='dnn_ctr898_ViewLoginModule_txtPassword';var loginField='dnn_ctr898_ViewLoginModule_btnSignIn'; function printPage() { window.print(); } //function sendData() //{ // window.open('/dnn/desktopmodules/VCMPrintSendArticleModule/sendfriend.htm'); //} function sendData(data) { // Initialize packed or we get the word 'undefined' var packed = ""; for (i = 0; (i < data.length); i++) { if (i > 0) { packed += ","; } packed += escape(data[i]); } window.location = "/dnn/desktopmodules/VCMPrintSendArticleModule/SendFriend.htm?" + packed; } function openWindow(url) { window.open(url, 'mywindow', 'width=350,height=370,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,scrollbars=no,status=no,toolbar=no,resizable=yes'); } Print This ArticleSend to a Friend OAS_AD('Right'); Online Store ASCD's Top 5 Books Classroom Instruction That Works Enhancing Professional Practice, 2nd Edition The Art and Science of Teaching http://shop.ascd.org/productdisplay
  • aim for the lowest possible reading leve
    • Sandy Kluver
      Sandy Kluver on 06 Jun 11
       
      This really surprises me. I've never thought to write a test at the least possible reading level. With my ESL students, I always make sure the words aren't new to the students but hadn't thought about the level I was writing the test at.
  • Use a reading score from a state accountability test as a diagnostic instrument for reading group placement.
    • Sandy Kluver
      Sandy Kluver on 06 Jun 11
       
      hmmm... we do this for Instructional Decision Making groups in Carroll. It's only one piece of the puzzle, but at the beginning of the year, we rely on the ITBS Reading Comp score to place students into groups.
    • Cheryl Merical
      Cheryl Merical on 07 Jun 11
       
      Unfortunately, I think that is a common practice of many districts.
    • Deb Versteeg
      Deb Versteeg on 12 Jun 11
       
      Sandy, I've always been bothered by this part of IDM, also.
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      I have done this myself at the high school level. No other data exists for my use in connection with students I don't know and time constraints.
  • Seven strategies of assessment for learning.
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      This is one of the most practical resources on assessment that I have read in a long time. I recommend it to all!
  • cultural insensitivity
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      I witnessed this first hand when the demographics in one district changed dramatically over the course of about two years. For younger students, pictures in an assessment were used. Several of the students had never seen a rose, but they knew it was a flower--but flower wasn't a choice.
    • Cindy Blinkinsop
      Cindy Blinkinsop on 07 Jun 11
       
      This is so true! One night my husband and I were watching COPS and they were in NYC. A little boy pointed to the very small grassy area in between four apartment buildings that made a square and said, "He just ran through that meadow." I looked at my husband and said, "That kid would flunk the ITBS because he doesn't know the true definition of a meadow...for him, the small grassy area is a meadow. But for our region, a meadow is described totally differently and looks totally different." Test writers do not consider regional vocabulary enough when putting together an assessment. It is still 'one size fits all.'
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      There are some obvious things when it comes to cultural sensitivity. There are also some things a person preparing a test just might not know since their culture is different.
  • access to the data they want when they need it,
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      This implies timely feedback.
  • students
  • learning continuum
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      Learning progressions that Margaret Heritage talks about in Assessment for Learning.
  • The classroom is also a practical location to give students multiple opportunities to demonstrate what they know and can do
    • Linda Hoobin
      Linda Hoobin on 07 Jun 11
       
      Multiple is the key word here!
    • Cindy Blinkinsop
      Cindy Blinkinsop on 07 Jun 11
       
      I agree - multiple opportunities. We need to consider the various learning styles that we are teaching to each day and how each will best be able to show proficiency based on a product meaningful to the learner.
  • the reason for assessing is to document individual or group achievement or mastery of standards and measure achievement status at a point in time.
    • Julie Townsend
      Julie Townsend on 07 Jun 11
       
      Mastery is what we want as teachers, and using an accurate assessment done frequently should show us how far students have come in their achievement.
  • Choosing the Right Assessment
    • Julie Townsend
      Julie Townsend on 07 Jun 11
       
      I like this table--the categories and the description within.
    • Cheryl Merical
      Cheryl Merical on 07 Jun 11
       
      Agree. Would be a good reference tool for all teachers.
    • Lisa Buss
      Lisa Buss on 08 Jun 11
       
      I think I will use this as a reference.
    • Deborah Ausborn
      Deborah Ausborn on 09 Jun 11
       
      I agree as well. This would be a good tool to share with my home school parents.
    • Joletta Yoder
      Joletta Yoder on 27 Sep 11
       
      Great reminder for all of us, especially English teachers, that we can, and should, be using various forms of assessment. I'm hitting PRINT right now and posting this on my wall in and in my planning folders!
  • Specific, descriptive feedback linked to the targets of instruction and arising from the assessment items or rubrics communicates to students in ways that enable them to immediately take action, thereby promoting further learning.
    • Darin Johnson
      Darin Johnson on 07 Jun 11
       
      Whenever I read the word "specific," I can't help but to remember my third year of teaching when the English 9 teachers would share an old reel-to-reel converted to VHS instructional video with the class. Several minutes into the video, the narrator would tell the students: "Specific is terrific." This type of feedback is really the exception rather than the rule, isn't it?
    • Deborah Ausborn
      Deborah Ausborn on 09 Jun 11
       
      This is really good practice, but extremely time consuming. We need to include as much as possible, but it may not always be feasible or possible to do it all the time.
  • build balanced systems, with assessment-literate users
    • Cheryl Merical
      Cheryl Merical on 07 Jun 11
       
      Wouldn't an RTI model with all its components (e.g., universal screening, progress monitoring, etc.) implemented with fidelity, meet this criteria??
  • Creating a plan like this for each assessment helps assessors sync what they taught with what they're assessing.
    • terri lamb
      terri lamb on 08 Jun 11
       
      .This is a great way to document each assessment.
  • In the case of summative tests, the reason for assessing is to document individual or group achievement or mastery of standards and measure achievement status at a point in time.
    • Darin Johnson
      Darin Johnson on 07 Jun 11
       
      The point where my assessment breaks down is that my formative assessments are almost always for individuals rather than for groups. Aside from ITEDs, no one beyond my classroom seems concerned with assessment data.
  • inform instructional improvement and identify struggling students and the areas in which they struggle
    • Cheryl Merical
      Cheryl Merical on 08 Jun 11
       
      If we can identify students at-risk earlier through regular progress monitoring, we can move away from the "waiting to fail" model. 
  • Students learn best when they monitor and take responsibility for their own learning.
    • terri lamb
      terri lamb on 08 Jun 11
       
      When we begin a project in desktop publishing the students and I brainstorm the different skills and techniques they can demonstrate and use in the project which in turn becomes their checklist or rubric. They feel more ownership and may need to revisit a skills that other students - they often require more of themselves as well.
    • Lisa Buss
      Lisa Buss on 08 Jun 11
       
      I think this is very true and I also believe that the learning is at a higher level.
  • For each assessment, regardless of purpose, the assessor should organize the learning targets represented in the assessment into a written test plan that matches the learning targets represented in the curriculum
    • Lisa Buss
      Lisa Buss on 08 Jun 11
       
      In other words, we must test over wht we've taught?
    • Deb Versteeg
      Deb Versteeg on 12 Jun 11
       
      Or....we need to be sure that students are learning what is going to be assessed. And what is going to be assessed is aligned with the intended learning target. I think too often in classrooms, the teaching is first, then the learning, then the alignment with the assessments or definied learning targets.
    • Natalie Smithhart
      Natalie Smithhart on 01 Oct 11
       
      So we need to decide what is going to be assessed first before we create the curriculum. I think often as teachers we do this the other way around. Seems like it should be simple, but sometimes I find myself creating my curriculum before I have decided what I might need to assess.
  • Teachers should design the assessment so students can use the results to self-assess and set goals.
    • Lisa Buss
      Lisa Buss on 08 Jun 11
       
      I need to do a better job of this!
  • Annual state and local district standardized tests serve annual accountability purposes, provide comparable data, and serve functions related to student placement and selection, guidance, progress monitoring, and program evaluation.
    • Lisa Buss
      Lisa Buss on 08 Jun 11
       
      But, in my opinion, what's being taught isn't necessarily what's being evaluated.
  • As a "big picture" beginning point in planning for the use of multiple measures, assessors need to consider each assessment level in light of four key questions, along with their formative and summative applications1
    • Lisa Buss
      Lisa Buss on 08 Jun 11
       
      This is brand new to me!
  • Summative applications refer to grades students receive (classroom level)
    • Lisa Buss
      Lisa Buss on 08 Jun 11
       
      I wish we could get away from grades and move to a benchmark checklist. When the student is proficient in one skill or concept they can move on to the next.
  • At the level of annual state/district standardized assessments, they involve where and how teachers can improve instruction—next year.
    • Deborah Ausborn
      Deborah Ausborn on 09 Jun 11
       
      It is great when this data is used to improve instruction. I was teaching in Texas whe Gov. Perry took over from George Bush (late 90s). The annual testing there was used to determined which schools received the most funds for the next year. High scoring schools received more money; low scoring schools received less money. Sadly, the low scoring schools generally needed the funds so much more than the high scoring schools. I had friends teaching in downtown Houston who told me how many of their students came to school with just a plain tortilla for lunch. They needed more funds, but since they received low scores received less funds. The students from the suburbs (such as Sugarland where at that time the mean income was $100,000/year, attending private tutoring (paid for by parents) several afternoons a week so their test scores would be higher. I literally saw students and teachers who had nervous breakdowns due to the pressure on the testing results. I agree we need assessments; I'm just concerned about how some of those assessments are used.
  • Feedback to students can use the language of the rubric:
  • Although it may seem as though having more assessments will mean we are more accurately estimating student achievement
    • Deb Versteeg
      Deb Versteeg on 12 Jun 11
       
      This is definitely a common misconception.
    • Lori Pearson
      Lori Pearson on 13 Jun 11
       
      Although, there are times when we need to dig deeper to find out exactly what area needs strengthening. Take reading comprehension, for example, so they are low in that area, what does that mean-many, many components make up that area.
  • The assessor
    • Deb Versteeg
      Deb Versteeg on 12 Jun 11
       
      This term, "the assessor", in and of itself has got me thinking. While the instructor might be the one "giving" the assessment, might the "assessor" at times not be the instructor? Could the state or the district be the assessor in some cases? Could the student be the assessor?
    • Amy Burns
      Amy Burns on 26 Sep 11
       
      Devil's Advocate at work here....in a perfect world, our assessments would inspire students to WANT to improve, but in reality, can a rubric really do that in and of itself?
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      I have yet to see a student use a rubric to improve a project. I think the idea of it is good, but the self-motivation is not there, or I don't know how to motivate them myself.
  • Given the rise in testing, especially in light of a heightened focus on using multiple measures, it's increasingly important to address two essential components of reliable assessments: quality and balance.
    • Amy Burns
      Amy Burns on 26 Sep 11
       
      Agreed. Now, if multiple measures are indeed so important, why are we still so mired in the standardized tests to judge success?
    • Kay Durfey
      Kay Durfey on 08 Jun 12
       
      I believe that this article "The Quest for Quality" really gets at the heart of the importance of having "focus lessons" daily and more long-term learning targets for both teachers and students. Being specific and purposeful about what and how we want students to learn (skills and academic (vocabulary) is essential to genuine learning and performances.
  • Knowledge targets,
  • Reasoning targets
  • Performance skill targets
  • Product targets
  • It also helps them assign the appropriate balance of points in relation to the importance of each target as well as the number of items for each assessed target.
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      Is anyone besides me starting to feel overwhelmed? I guess this could be done as a districtwide assessment project, but what this article is really starting to accentuate is how little time teachers have for pondering once a school year begins.
  • This key ensures that the assessor has translated the learning targets into assessments that will yield accurate results. It calls attention to the proper assessment method and to the importance of minimizing any bias that might distort estimates of student learning.
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      This is what I really want to learn how to do!
  • A mechanism should be in place for students to track their own progress on learning targets and communicate their status to others
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      My comment here concerns this whole paragraph. I think we need to provide time to students as well as teachers for analyzing the results of assessments, and for using the results to make their projects better. As it is, no one has time to revisit the object of the assessment. Time constraints have all educational participants roaring along at breakneck speeds
  • Who is the decision maker?
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      I think this question is crucial. If the decision-maker and the purpose of the test are punitive rather than informed, no wonder people don't want to be assessed! of course we need to consider this as people who are decisionmakers and quit using tests scores to punish students--we don't like being punished for results and neither do they.
  • applying data to decisions for which they aren't suited.
  • Assessment literacy
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      Surely a staff development need.
  • A detailed chart listing key issues and their formative and summative applications at each of the three assessment levels is available at www.ascd.org/ASCD/pdf/journals/ed_lead/el200911_chappius_table.pdf
    • Marcia Jensen
      Marcia Jensen on 23 Jul 12
       
      Hoping to share this with our data teams this year.
  • cultural insensitivity
  • Are results communicated in time to inform the intended decisions?
  • to know what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate uses of assessment results—thereby reducing the risk of applying data to decisions for which they aren't suited.
  • Darin Johnson on 07 Jun 11
     
    The point where my assessment breaks down is that my formative data is rarely shared with others. We don't look for trends or patterns or discuss needed changes in content or instructional delivery.
  • Kay Durfey on 08 Jun 12
     
    I believe that this article "The Quest for Quality" really gets at the heart of the importance of having "focus lessons" daily and more long-term learning targets for both teachers and students. Being specific and purposeful about what and how we want students to learn (skills and academic (vocabulary) is essential to genuine learning and performances.
  • Kay Durfey on 08 Jun 12
     
    Founded in 1943, ASCD (formerly the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) is an educational leadership organization dedicated to advancing best practices and policies for the success of each learner. Our 175,000 members in 119 countries are professional educators from all levels and subject areas--superintendents, supervisors, principals, teachers, professors of education, and school board members.
anonymous

Shake Up Learning Website and Blog - 0 views

www.shakeuplearning.com

moodle_iowa

shared by anonymous on 08 Feb 17 - No Cached
  • anonymous on 08 Feb 17
     
    Tutorials and tips for many applications, but it mainly focuses on Google products.
Lorilee Hamel

ollie1christensen: Iowa Online Course Standards - 0 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

online leadership

shared by Lorilee Hamel on 12 Jul 12 - No Cached
  • course provider in most cases, not the course instructor or course creator
    • Erin Payne-Christiansen
      Erin Payne-Christiansen on 12 Jul 12
       
      I've taught primarily in the high school setting, with a few summers of adjuncting in a small college, so this differentiation between instructor, creator, and provider struck me as very interesting. I've always been both instructor and creator; I've also felt that the "provider" (the schools I've taught within) gave me as "instructor/creator" a great deal of freedom. It seems though, that with online courses, these three roles could easily be assumed by three different people. Communication and interaction between these three roles would be perhaps even more important!
    • Lorilee Hamel
      Lorilee Hamel on 22 Jul 12
       
      But am reading this wrong or do I not understand it well, because I think the provider would be the school or institution giving the credit: high school, college, university, elementary school. Doesn't the CP designation identify the requirements of the institution to provide legitimate and exemplary online instruction?
    • Lorilee Hamel
      Lorilee Hamel on 22 Jul 12
       
      The "Learner Objectives" are similar to what would be expected in any class: online or otherwise. And are vital to ensuring quality instruction.
  • (K-12) • Information literacy and communication skills are incorporated and taught as an integral part of the curriculum.
  • ...10 more annotations...
    • Lorilee Hamel
      Lorilee Hamel on 22 Jul 12
       
      The inclusion of the online literacy skills, especially use of technology is a tricky one. One of the admonitions that we face as educators is the reminder that, for example, in an English literature course how much of my instruction should be on the application of a software program or online tool? Should any of my instruction time be taken up with instruction on those 21st century technology components or should it only be used in an English literature classroom IF the student know how to use it and no class/instructional time needs to be used up on the technical aspect of a project or learning demonstration?
  • All resources and materials used in the course are appropriately cited and obey copyright and fair use.
  • Information is provided to students, parents and mentors
    • Lorilee Hamel
      Lorilee Hamel on 22 Jul 12
       
      This new learning opportunity MUST include the method of informing and including all major educational stakeholders.
  • timely and frequent feedback about student progress based on the learning targets
  • foster mastery and application of the material and a plan for monitoring that interaction.
  • Student evaluation strategies are aligned with course goals and objectives, representative of the scope of the course and clearly stated.
  • Specific and descriptive criteria, including rubrics,
  • Ongoing and frequent assessments
    • Lorilee Hamel
      Lorilee Hamel on 22 Jul 12
       
      Inclusion of many opportunities for formative assessment of the student's understanding and abilities as well as clearly coordinated summative assessments is vital!
  • Lorilee Hamel on 22 Jul 12
     
    Here are my ideas about the Online Course Standards proposal.
Marcia Jensen

18 Ways Teachers Can Use Google+ Hangouts - Online Colleges - 6 views

www.onlinecolleges.net/...-ways-teachers-google-hangouts

online_learning

shared by Marcia Jensen on 12 Dec 11 - No Cached
  • Marcia Jensen on 12 Dec 11
     
    Through Hangouts, up to ten users can video conference at once, and the service is easily connected to existing Google+ circles, offering up a whole host of exciting ways teachers can make use of it for educational applications.
Keith Bonnstetter

ollie1reppert: Iowa Online Course Standards - 0 views

moodle.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

moodle_iowa

shared by Keith Bonnstetter on 15 Nov 11 - No Cached
  • Sufficient learning resources and materials to increase student success are available to students
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 15 Nov 11
       
      Having an online presence really makes this possible because you can easily increase the resources and materials available to students. For instance, on my Google site, I have links to other resources where students can go for help if they do not understand a concept, such as the textbook site, writing skills sites, and study skills sites.
  • Academic integrity and netiquette (Internet etiquette) expectations regarding lesson activities, discussions, e-mail communications and plagiarism are clearly stated • Privacy policies are clearly stated. • The self-introduction by the instructor is appropriate and available online, and students are likewise asked to introduce themselves to the class. (CP) • The course provider offers orientation training.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 15 Nov 11
       
      All four of these are very important, but I have to say that my course currently lacks each of these. I'm wondering if since my course is partially online and partially in person if all of these are necessary to have in the online component, or if it counts as long as it is covered at one point, whether it be online or in person.
    • LeAnne Wagner
      LeAnne Wagner on 15 Nov 11
       
      This is an area that often gets overlooked.  It is a skill just like any of the technical skills--knowing the online etiquette, etc.  
  • The course makes maximum appropriate use of online tools outside of the CMS (including email, web 2.0, chat, videoconferencing, and whiteboard) to enhance learning
    • LeAnne Wagner
      LeAnne Wagner on 15 Nov 11
       
      So many times, you see schools that have their teachers use a CMS like Moodle and that is the extent of their technology use--it is only one way to utilize.  There are many ways to deeply integrate these types of tools in the classroom.
    • Josh Hetrick
      Josh Hetrick on 17 Nov 11
       
      I have really started to think this year how to connect with students using my Promethean board at school.
  • ...17 more annotations...
  • The course instructions articulate or link to a clear description of the technical support offered.
    • Steve Butler
      Steve Butler on 16 Nov 11
       
      got to have the technical support... learners will get discouraged or quit w/o it!
    • Robin Olberding
      Robin Olberding on 17 Nov 11
       
      I highly agree.
  • The course is easy and logical to navigate, including self-describing links
    • Steve Butler
      Steve Butler on 16 Nov 11
       
      I think it is very important to remove potential barriers to learning. Confusion leads to shutdown.
  • Technologies are chosen that are accessible to students
    • Josh Hetrick
      Josh Hetrick on 17 Nov 11
       
      It's important to remember when placing items on a website that are downloadable to choose programs that most students have. What I am thinking is when using the latest version of microsoft that some students don't have to convert to a pdf file.
  • Specific and descriptive criteria, including rubrics, are provided for the evaluation of students’ work and participation
    • Josh Hetrick
      Josh Hetrick on 17 Nov 11
       
      I have really started to use more rubrics in my teaching and students find it useful. I really think when students are allowed to help create the rubric it makes their learning more powerful and gives them a sense of ownership.
  • A clear, complete course overview and syllabus are included in the course
    • Andy Denton
      Andy Denton on 17 Nov 11
       
      This is the best way to start all classes. everyone knows what is expected and there ar eno questions as to what is going to be done in the class.
  • Ongoing and frequent assessments are conducted to verify each student’s readiness for the next lesson.
    • Andy Denton
      Andy Denton on 17 Nov 11
       
      The question then becomes what to do when some are ready to move on abd the others are not quite there yet. Stay with the topic and bore some, or go on and lose others.
  • The course content and assignments are of sufficient rigor, depth, and breadth to teach the standards being addressed
    • Andy Denton
      Andy Denton on 17 Nov 11
       
      They have to be challenged to the point just before frustration.
  • clearly state what the participants will know or be able to do at the end of the course
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 18 Nov 11
       
      I appreciate knowing upfront what I am expected to do and what I will learn in a course! Clarity is great!
  • Course instructions answer basic questions related to research, writing, technology, etc., or link to tutorials or other resources that provide the information.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 18 Nov 11
       
      The issue that I see as a concern is that tutorials become outdated as soon as a tool updates and the interface/operations change. Keeping the tutorials current is another job for the instructor.
  • The course provides opportunities for appropriate student interaction with the content to foster mastery and application of the material.
  • The course provides opportunities for appropriate instructor-student and student-student interaction to foster mastery and application of the material and a plan for monitoring that interaction.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 18 Nov 11
       
      Student interaction can be so powerful! One of the best ways to learn!
  • The course instruction includes activities that engage students in active learning.
    • Kristy Cleppe
      Kristy Cleppe on 21 Nov 11
       
      The ability to utilize online resources and course work provides many opportunities for students to actively engage themselves and what they learn with in a course. Some hands on activities can be utilized within a moodle
  • Instructions make clear how to get started and where to find various course components.
    • Kristy Cleppe
      Kristy Cleppe on 21 Nov 11
       
      This is one reason I truly enjoy utilizing a moodle with in my classroom. It limits handouts and creates a great opportunity for me to provide very detailed instructions about assigments, activities or projects. When students are absent they can access this information in order to be prepared for the next class.
  • The course provides opportunities for students to engage in higher-order thinking, critical-reasoning activities and thinking in increasingly complex ways.
    • Keith Bonnstetter
      Keith Bonnstetter on 23 Nov 11
       
      This is extremely important for AP classes. The students need to reach this level of thinking skills in order to perform well on the AP exam.
    • Keith Bonnstetter
      Keith Bonnstetter on 23 Nov 11
       
      This is extremely important so that the students know exactly what they must do. It is hard to get to the final destination if the map is unclear.
  • The requirements for student work, including student interaction, are clearly articulated.
tvalline

Articles: Design - 2 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by tvalline on 24 Sep 14 - No Cached
  • The less clutter you have on your slide, the more powerful your visual message will become.
    • merle64
      merle64 on 24 Sep 14
       
      This is a huge takeaway for me--less is truly more. But the "less" needs to be thoughtful, not just less.
  • According to the Segmentation Principle of multimedia learning theory, people comprehend better when information is presented in small chunks or segments.
    • merle64
      merle64 on 24 Sep 14
       
      I wonder if this applies to young children, too, in terms of showing a few slides, then breaking for an activity or application, then returning to a few additional slides?
  • Again, nothing should look accidental. This looks like they were going for the full-bleed background image effect but just missed. Now the software background template can be seen just enough to become a bit of noise
    • merle64
      merle64 on 24 Sep 14
       
      This may look like many of my slides.  I considered that the "border" rather than "noise"--which is a bit like using a scrapbooking model rather than a presentation model.
    • nathanjenkins
      nathanjenkins on 29 Sep 14
       
      Yes, the border would seem to help.  Is there a way to fit to screen?  Is there a tool for this technique?  It often seems to be an issue for me.  
  • ...27 more annotations...
  • So make sure your slides pass what I call the glance test: People should be able to comprehend each one in about three seconds.
    • merle64
      merle64 on 24 Sep 14
       
      This glance test matches with the elevator test taught earlier.  If the presenter is able to pass the elevator test in terms of clarity, the audience should be able to pass the glance test with the slides.
  • If sharing this approach prevents just one audience from suffering through another bullet-point-intensive, “death by PowerPoint” session, my efforts were not in vain.
    • merle64
      merle64 on 24 Sep 14
       
      What a concrete, do-able approach to editing slide text down to the bare bones, or even replacing text entirely with visuals.  
  • Make sure you know the difference between a Serif font (e.g., Times New Roman) and a Sans-Serif font (Helvetica or Arial).
    • marydirksen
      marydirksen on 26 Sep 14
       
      I am so glad to have this explained! I did not know the difference between Serif and Sans-Serif.
  • f you have a detailed handout or publication for the audience to be passed out after your talk, you need not feel compelled to fill your PowerPoint slides with a great deal of text.
    • marydirksen
      marydirksen on 27 Sep 14
       
      Thanks to Zen Presentations, I did this very thing today at a faculty inservice. The atmosphere was light and fun and simple and I gave them a one page handout that was full of bullets. Thank you Zen!
    • nathanjenkins
      nathanjenkins on 29 Sep 14
       
      I am excited about changing my presentations and eliminating the wordiness.  I am a true believer in putting more work into the hands of the students, and they will hopefully become more in-tuned with the material.  
  • “white space”
    • marydirksen
      marydirksen on 27 Sep 14
       
      I like the repeated emphasis on white space. It has a very clear look.
  • Think of your slides as billboards.
    • marydirksen
      marydirksen on 27 Sep 14
       
      This comparison presents a strategy that will be very easy to remember.
  • Avoid off-the-shelf clip art
    • marydirksen
      marydirksen on 27 Sep 14
       
      Thank you for this strategy. Clip Art tends to cheapen the message.
  • Some animation is a good thing, but stick to the most subtle and professional
    • nathanjenkins
      nathanjenkins on 29 Sep 14
       
      I have been to many presentations where animation on the slides took over (often during technology meetings).  The only thing it said was that the tech guy knows his programs.  It was often distracting and limited the true expression of the material.
  • Similarly, your audience should focus intently on what you’re saying, looking only briefly at your slides when you display them
    • nathanjenkins
      nathanjenkins on 29 Sep 14
       
      I absolutely agree, but when the presentation is posted on a large screen in the front of the class it will be difficult to not have the students stare at the screen the entire time.  This kind of seems contradictory.  If we are trying to make catchy and interesting slides, why are we also only wanting them to take a brief glance?
  • Use the same font set throughout your entire slide presentation
  • You can use video clips within PowerPoint without ever leaving the application or tuning on a VCR. Using a video clip not only will illustrate your point better, it will also serve as a change of pace thereby increasing the interest of your audience. You can use audio clips (such as interviews) as well.
    • medidiigo
      medidiigo on 30 Sep 14
       
      I have never tried to use video or sound bites in my presentations. I would like to figure out how to do this
    • tvalline
      tvalline on 02 Oct 14
       
      I also believe incorporating video clips into my presentations will help keep the attention of the audience, as well as, add interest and hopefully deepen understanding.
  • Even worse is to take a free comp from a photo website and stretch it out. This introduces distracting visual noise (and says you are either cheap, lazy, or both). If you cannot afford images (or do not have a camera, etc.), then it's better to use none at all
    • medidiigo
      medidiigo on 30 Sep 14
       
      This author "makes no bones about it" when expressing his opinions. His adjectives are a bit harsh..here, and elsewhere....but point taken.
  • Sometimes the image is actually a pretty good one but it just needs a bit of editing so that the text will pop out more. The slide on the left below is not horrible but the balance is off and the text does not pop out as much as it could. For the slide on the right below, the image is cropped for better balance, giving more space for the text to breath (and a transparent box is added to help the text pop out a bit more, though there are other ways to do this).
    • medidiigo
      medidiigo on 30 Sep 14
       
      I have been experimenting with creating a transparent box to help the text show up when there is a picture with background that interferes. I am still not happy with the effect that I got. I'm thinking there is probably a better way.
    • tvalline
      tvalline on 02 Oct 14
       
      I would also like to perfect this technique.  I agree that it helps the text stand out much better.
  • White space is the open space surrounding items of interest. Presenters are often tempted to fill it up with additional content that competes for attention. But including a healthy amount of white space sharpens viewers’ focus by isolating elements. In this example, if we’d paired the text with a larger or more detailed image, your eye wouldn’t know where to begin, and the quote would have lost its power:
    • medidiigo
      medidiigo on 30 Sep 14
       
      Here, I'm wondering why they didn't enlarget he picture to cover the full screen as suggested earlier, and put that transparent box behind the text. Maybe they tried that and preferred this look. I find myself trying different things versions of my slides now as I am working on my current presentation project.
  • Presentation software gives us many shiny, seductive elements to work with. But there’s beauty and clarity in restraint. Use simple visuals that support your message, and you’ll free people up to really hear — and adopt — your ideas.
    • medidiigo
      medidiigo on 30 Sep 14
       
      This is well stated. It's a good point to take from the article and remember as I create my presentations.
  • It can be challenging to reduce and simplify
    • medidiigo
      medidiigo on 30 Sep 14
       
      True. More so than I thought it would be
  • Follow these steps to reduce and simplify your text-heavy bullet points — your audience will thank you. Live long and prosper.
    • medidiigo
      medidiigo on 30 Sep 14
       
      This is a good strategy for recreating old text-heavy PowerPoint presentations that need a fresh look.
  • (the star, of course, is your audience)
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 02 Oct 14
       
      Fantastic reminder. 
  • “negative space.”
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 02 Oct 14
       
      My architect friends always talk about this as well. 
  • The best slides may have no text at all.
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 02 Oct 14
       
      Let me transcribe that for myself so I remember: "The best slides have no text at all." Got it. 
  • Try to avoid cheesy clip art like this.
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 02 Oct 14
       
      Why do they still make this stuff and offer it? 
  • decrease the opacity and add a Gaussian Blur or motion filter in Photoshop
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 02 Oct 14
       
      I'm adding this suggestion to the tool belt. 
  • Image is lame &amp; has nothing to do with contentNot sure what two guys shaking hands in front of a globe has to do with the fertility rate in Japan. Yet even if we were talking about "international partnership" the image is still a cliché.
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 02 Oct 14
       
      This just made me laugh out loud :-) 
  • People should be able to comprehend each one in about three seconds.
    • Joe Brekke
      Joe Brekke on 02 Oct 14
       
      Here's another easy-to-remember tip to pass on to my students. 
  • Use high-quality graphics including photographs
    • tvalline
      tvalline on 02 Oct 14
       
      Guilty.  I'm looking forward to working through my various presentations replacing my plethora of cartoon graphics with emotion-provoking photographs.
  • Audiences are much better served receiving a detailed, written handout as a takeaway from the presentation, rather than a mere copy of your PowerPoint slides
    • tvalline
      tvalline on 02 Oct 14
       
      I found this interesting.  I often wish I could just take the power point handout and be on my way since many times the presenter just reads the slides to the audience.  I can read.
  • Remove all extraneous copy from bullet points
    • tvalline
      tvalline on 02 Oct 14
       
      This is where I falter.  It's hard to simplify information to just one or two words, even though it is often more effective.  I will be working on this.
criley55

ollie_4-fall14: Building a Better Mousetrap - 4 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by criley55 on 17 Sep 14 - No Cached
  • rubric that tells students, as a typical example, that they will get an A for writing a 1000 word essay that “cites x number of sources and supports its thesis with at least three arguments” will lead students to perceive writing as a kind of “paint-by-number” endeavor (Mathews).
    • joycevermeer
      joycevermeer on 20 Sep 14
       
      Yes, by saying "how many" students naturally look at quantity more than quality. So best is probably that we speak of both when creating rubrics.
  • ubric that tells students, as a typical example, that they will get an A for writing a 1000 word essay that “cites x number of sources and supports its thesis with at least three arguments” will lead students to perceive writing as a kind of “paint-by-number” endeavor (Mathews).
  • ubric that tells students, as a typical example, that they will get an A for writing a 1000 word essay that “cites x number of sources and supports its thesis with at least three arguments” will lead students to perceive writing as a kind of “paint-by-number” endeavor (Mathews).
  • ...79 more annotations...
    • scampie1
      scampie1 on 17 Sep 14
       
      es, I have seen this with my reflection logs in my classes. When we use quantity rather than quality indicators, we do seem to get minimum responses. I plan to respond to the logs frequently to encourage teachers to use them for self-reflection. That was not possible working face to face.
    • scampie1
      scampie1 on 17 Sep 14
       
      My students reported not knowing what was being assesed was their biggest asssessment fear. Actual models and discussion about criteria is absolutely necessary.
  • Barbara Moskal, in her article “Scoring Rubrics: What, When, and How?” insists that rubrics should be non-judgmental: “Each score category should be defined using description of the work rather than judgments about the work.” For example, “sentence structure follows current conventions” would be better than “sentence structure is good.”
    • scampie1
      scampie1 on 17 Sep 14
       
      I believe some qualities must be defined using qualitative terminalogy. This is where student input and comparison of models of high and low quality criteira would help students define or picture the quality indicators that are "judgemental". Scampie1
    • Marisa Dahl
      Marisa Dahl on 30 Sep 14
       
      I agree. After being given a number I feel like they don't have a qualification equivalent. When I took a course much like this at Iowa State, our professor had a rubric based on the quality of the post, not how many. It was nice to be given credit for content instead of word count. It goes back to the days when we were forced to write 10 pages on pandas with at least 10 sources with only one of those being the WWW (which is how it was stated). I also don't like having such a high quantity because with so many students in the course it becomes overwhelming to read each one, let alone provide a meaningful comment or reflection. There isn't much text that left to highlight, back to "less is more".
  • Indeed, since rubrics allow for widespread assessment of higher-level thinking skills, performance-based assessment is replacing or complementing more traditional modes of testing; this in turn means that teachers are changing their instructional modes to prepare their students for these tests. Kenneth Volger, in his study, “The Impact of High-Stakes, State-Mandated Student Performance Assessment on Teacher’s Instructional Practices,” analyzes the survey responses of 257 10th grade English, math, and science teachers and concludes that, since the implementation of such tests in public schools, there has been “notable increases in the use of open-response questions, creative/critical thinking questions, problem-solving activities, […] writing assignments, and inquiry/investigation.”
  • Indeed, since rubrics allow for widespread assessment of higher-level thinking skills, performance-based assessment is replacing or complementing more traditional modes of testing; this in turn means that teachers are changing their instructional modes to prepare their students for these tests. Kenneth Volger, in his study, “The Impact of High-Stakes, State-Mandated Student Performance Assessment on Teacher’s Instructional Practices,” analyzes the survey responses of 257 10th grade English, math, and science teachers and concludes that, since the implementation of such tests in public schools, there has been “notable increases in the use of open-response questions, creative/critical thinking questions, problem-solving activities, […] writing assignments, and inquiry/investigation.”
  • Indeed, since rubrics allow for widespread assessment of higher-level thinking skills, performance-based assessment is replacing or complementing more traditional modes of testing; this in turn means that teachers are changing their instructional modes to prepare their students for these tests. Kenneth Volger, in his study, “The Impact of High-Stakes, State-Mandated Student Performance Assessment on Teacher’s Instructional Practices,” analyzes the survey responses of 257 10th grade English, math, and science teachers and concludes that, since the implementation of such tests in public schools, there has been “notable increases in the use of open-response questions, creative/critical thinking questions, problem-solving activities, […] writing assignments, and inquiry/investigation.”
    • scampie1
      scampie1 on 17 Sep 14
       
      A high school math teacher I know tried to add writing in math as part of the Writing Across Curriculum program. Instead of using appropriate prompts for technical writing in mathematics, the rubric forced her to use themes and literacy criteria. Writing did improve in her school on state assessments but she didn't feel math scores were affected.
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 21 Sep 14
       
      Hopefully the students that took the math course that added writing were in a better position to be successful later in life by gaining more writing instruction overall, even if the math scores weren't impacted in the short term. 
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      Deb Vail: This is key. The students must get the rubric before turning in their work to get the maximum value from it. Additionally, I have found that if students practice assessing samples using the rubric prior to turning in their own they understand the goal more fully. 
  • The instructor’s comments on papers and tests are done after rather than before the writing, so they cannot serve as guidelines, compromising the value of writing comments at all
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      This is key. The students must get the rubric before turning in their work to get the maximum value from it. Additionally, I have found that if students practice assessing samples using the rubric prior to turning in their own they understand the goal more fully. 
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 19 Sep 14
       
      Deb, I think you are right having the students complete an exercise where they can study and grade samples prior to turning in their own work can be a very powerful tool in helping students reach mastery of a task.
  • Perhaps the greatest potential value of classroom assessment is realized when we open the assessment process up and welcome students into that process as full partners” (qtd. in Skillings and Ferrell).
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      This sounds great, but I can't imagine how long it would take for students to help create assessments. I taught 3rd and 4th graders, and I don't think I'd truly try this. Sounds great in theory, but I'm skeptical. 
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 19 Sep 14
       
      Deb, I'm with you on this one.  I would be very interested to see how an instructor set up a lesson to allow for student collaboration in developing a quality rubric.  I'm not saying that it can't be done but it could be a very cumbersome task.  I'm trying to imagine doing it with my 30+ sophomores in a World History class.
    • Kristina Dvorak
      Kristina Dvorak on 19 Sep 14
       
      I am also in agreement with the both of you.  I have thought about doing this with my students after I do a demonstration.  Asking the students what the learning targets should be.  I am sure that some of them could do this with ease and it might allow them to take more ownership in their learning, but there just isn't enough time for this.  It might be better for a small claass
  • I once gave extra credit to a student who realized that without providing a shred of meaningful content she could meet all the requirements of a state writing rubric he posted in his classroom. As required she used the word “persuade” and two synonyms, composed a clear topic sentence and closing sentence, and made no spelling or grammatical errors. But she did it without saying anything coherent.
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      That's a scary thought, although I have to say I've felt that kids met the letter of the rubric but missed the intent. Writing a good rubric is challenging. I have to honestly say that I've never truly felt like I nailed what I wanted with a rubric. However, I've had good luck with rubrics when kids used them to score samples. Then they understood the intent or goal of the rubric. 
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 19 Sep 14
       
      I agree that "writing a good rubric is challenging". This is an area that will continue to be a work in progress as I continure to work towards a clearer message being shared.
    • Diane Jackson
      Diane Jackson on 21 Sep 14
       
      I thought this was interesting and scary too. A student could meet all the requirements and not really say anything.
  • mitagate both teacher bias and the perception of teacher bias (
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      I'm not sure I'd agree with this. I think rubrics are subjective by their very nature. 
    • joycevermeer
      joycevermeer on 20 Sep 14
       
      My thought is that having a rubric generally makes for less subjectivity than not having a rubric.....though subjectivity can be present either way.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Sep 14
       
      I agree with Joyce. Unless a teacher is using rubrics at inappropriate places, she is usually measuring something that is subjective. The rubric helps put it in a more objective manner, allowing for more consistency between different assessors.
  • extremely short scales make it difficult to identify small differences between students.
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      This may be true for the rubric my group created. We only had 3 points on our scale. 
  • Analytical or holistic
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      Interesting - as I read above General and Specific, I thought it was the same thing as analytical vs. holistic. Surprised to find they are different. I guess I need to reread these. 
  • Look at some actual examples of student work to see if you have omitted any important dimensions.
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      So true - how many times have I created a rubric that I thought was good - that is until I looked at what I got from students and realized I missed something that should have been included in the rubric. 2nd iterations are usually better. 
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 21 Sep 14
       
      I've done exactly the same and omitted a key point that should have been included. I agree with the second iterations being better.
  • we need a meta-rubric to assess our rubric
    • Deb Vail
      Deb Vail on 19 Sep 14
       
      Are you serious?! This sounds like it came from a person that doesn't actually teach. I suspect this comment sounds a little snarky but I find this a bit much. 
  • Moreover, rubrics can help the student with self-assessment; what is most important here is not the final product the students produce, but the habits of mind practiced in the act of self-assessment.
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 19 Sep 14
       
      When students receive the rubric for assessment prior to beginning their work this eliminates excuses a teacher may hear as everything is clearly stated and noted. A rubric serves as an excellent way for students to self assess their work and determining whether the goals have been achieved and at what level.
    • Kristina Dvorak
      Kristina Dvorak on 19 Sep 14
       
      Agree, showing students the rubric first allows them to know what to aim for, what standards are critical for a particular assignment, and gives students a goal.  
  • he criteria must be made clear to them
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 19 Sep 14
       
      When developing a rubric one must remember to clearly state what makes the final product exemplary, proficient and may need additional work. Students can then evaluate or self assess at a more accurate level.
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 19 Sep 14
       
      Sometimes as educators we can use a lot of jargon.  We need to remember to keep it student focused if we are going to give the rubric to the students.  It doesn't do the student any good if they don't know the meaning of the different criteria.
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
  • “think more deeply about their learning.”
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 19 Sep 14
       
      When possible I believe we need to include students in the assessment process. This gives them a voice and buy-in to their learning.
    • joycevermeer
      joycevermeer on 20 Sep 14
       
      I can sure see how involving children in creating the rubric would require them to think more deeply. I wonder if students would suggest a harder or easier assignment than the teacher would. Sometimes just giving opportunity for input brings on motivation.
  • well-designed rubrics help instructors in all disciplines meaningfully assess the outcomes of the more complicated assignments that are the basis of the problem-solving, inquiry-based, student-centered pedagogy replacing the traditional lecture-based, teacher-centered approach in tertiary education.
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 19 Sep 14
       
      This quote seems to answer the basic question of why we should worry about designing rubrics?  It is one tool in assessing assignments that have the potential to be more meaningful for our students (problem-solving, inquiry-based, student-centered).
    • Kristina Dvorak
      Kristina Dvorak on 19 Sep 14
       
      Additionally, with these types of assignments without a rubric there is the possibility for subjective judgements.  A quality rubric will remove the subjective aspect to grading.  
    • bgeanaea11
      bgeanaea11 on 22 Sep 14
       
      I think once we understand rubrics and why we use them we can better decide when and how to use them.
  • along with supporting models of work
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 19 Sep 14
       
      A quality rubric is good for students but a quality rubric as well as supporting models or samples of student work can be much more powerful in helping students see what is actually expected from them. This is an aspect that I feel I could do a much better job of in my own instruction.
    • Nicole Wood
      Nicole Wood on 21 Sep 14
       
      I completely agree! As a primary teacher, I found models to be very powerful in giving students a visual of what different levels of quality work would "look like." Depending on the task, I would either post different levels of quality work and have them identify the criteria that matches each level or I would have them help me create models of what each quality level would look like. I fully recognize that this process is much easier in the primary grades where the tasks are often much smaller. However, I did find students were much more reflective on their work when we went through this process.
  • from students is not only unfair and makes self-assessment more difficult,
    • Kristina Dvorak
      Kristina Dvorak on 19 Sep 14
       
      If students don't know what the learning targets are, how do they know what to focus on?  The rubric should give students a clear idea of the goals.  
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Sep 14
       
      True. Although even knowing the learning targets doesn't help much if you don't make clear what it looks like to do them.
  • Moreover, some teachers have noticed how students who were good writers become wooden when writing under the influence of a rubric.
    • Kristina Dvorak
      Kristina Dvorak on 19 Sep 14
       
      It seems that some of these anecdotes show that the rubrics being used are missing categories to assess all the needed categories.  The first example is missing a component on being cohesive and this one is missing the creative component.   I have done this in the past, given a rubric and then realized it is missing something critical.  This is why rubric building takes so much time. 
  • rubrics, in effect, dehumanize the act of writing.
    • joycevermeer
      joycevermeer on 20 Sep 14
       
      With writing assignments is it not best that students just write from their heart first, then see if anything needs to be tweeked to fit the rubric requirements? Teachers can encourage this, but once the rubric is there it does make it hard....especially for younger children. This article brings up many valid points.
  • build your own rubric from scratch
    • joycevermeer
      joycevermeer on 20 Sep 14
       
      I'd probably take the build-it-from-scratch option. Sometimes it easier to come up with your own ideas than change somebody else's and you can then be more creative.
    • Adrian Evans
      Adrian Evans on 22 Sep 14
       
      I agree. It is fine to build one or two at the beginning, but then I find myself cannibalizing them to fit for an assignment. But, this builds consistency for the students as they can see what I am looking for and know that I have looked for that in prior assignments.
  • “Does the assessment help students become the kinds of [citizens] we want them to be?”
  • “Does the assessment help students become the kinds of [citizens] we want them to be?”
  • “Does the assessment help students become the kinds of [citizens] we want them to be?”
  • Does the assessment help students become the kinds of [citizens] we want them to be?”
    • joycevermeer
      joycevermeer on 20 Sep 14
       
      Asking if our assessment helps students become the kind of citizens we want them to be really puts the pressure on. We want them to want to contribute out of a sense of duty and for the good of mankind.
  • “Meaningfully” here means both consistently and accurately
    • Travis Wilkins
      Travis Wilkins on 20 Sep 14
       
      When working on my second grade team we often spent time trying to calibrate the consistency and accuracy of our rubrics.  On district wide assessments we would determine the assessments and rubric and each score separately.  We would continue to do this and refine.  It was always very eye opening to see how different we would score the same writings.  The process was very important to the refining of the rubric to the point where it was able to be used consistently and accurately with similar results from all in the group.  It sounds like we will be doing a similar project this week for our course.
    • Nicole Wood
      Nicole Wood on 21 Sep 14
       
      When I taught 2nd grade, our team did a similar process. I do believe that calibrating is a very important component to rubrics. Rubrics alone certainly do not guarantee that every member of a team will score a piece of writing the exact same way.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Sep 14
       
      It is interesting you both had this on a 2nd grade team. I have never done this, other than when I was a principal and I led inservice to do it. I wonder if any secondary teachers have experience calibrating.
    • Joanne Cram
      Joanne Cram on 23 Sep 14
       
      I struggle as a consultant to get the instructors to be sure when using a rubric, that they use quantifyable descriptors that have a quality spelled out specifically. It is either present, or not, or measured someway in between.
    • criley55
      criley55 on 29 Sep 14
       
      Calibration is so important when you look at it from a district level view. When we have students moving from school to school or not even moving, but comparing data from schools, if rubrics haven't been calibrated or pieces commonly scored, the data really doesn't tell you what you may think it does.
  • if they are shared with students prior to the completion of any given assignment.
    • Travis Wilkins
      Travis Wilkins on 20 Sep 14
       
      In my teaching experience, I found that many teachers skipped the process of sharing the rubrics with students.  I felt that this was a huge missed opportunity with the children in our classroom.  However, thoughtout my teaching career this became more of a focus in our district and it was amazing to see the transformation in student ownership of work when they had the criteria as defined in the rubric shared with them prior to their work.  
    • criley55
      criley55 on 29 Sep 14
       
      If we aren't sharing the rubrics with the students, they really can't take that ownership because they are guessing at what the teacher wants from them.
  • others worry that doing so will encourage formulaic writing
    • Travis Wilkins
      Travis Wilkins on 20 Sep 14
       
      This is an interesting point, and one that I had never really thought about.  I can say that in my 7 years in the 2nd and 3rd grade level classrooms that I did not find this to be much of a problem.  However, I can see how some secondary level rubrics could put more of an emphasis on number of words, spacing, requirements for number of arguments, etc. could lead to more of a formulaic style of writing.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Sep 14
       
      I can say this is a big issue in writing, especially "writing across the curriculum", where it is assigned by non-language arts teacher.
  • Feedback
    • Travis Wilkins
      Travis Wilkins on 20 Sep 14
       
      Our team of teachers in both 2nd and 3rd grade found great benefit from conversations with students about the rubrics we were using.  It became easy to see how certain words of phrases in our rubrics were unclear to students, and how simple changes could make them more applicable and meaningful for our students.  I think the feedback process is vital in creating a quality rubric for students.
  • As both institutional enrollment needs and social pressures for access raise the need of remediation (Soliday), rubrics become increasingly important to student success. Gisselle O. Martin-Kneep, in “Standards, Feedback, and Diversified Assessment: Addressing Equity Issues at the Classroom Level,” reports that extensive use of rubrics can help minimize students’ educational disparities and bring fairness into assessment on numerous levels:
    • Lynn Helmke
      Lynn Helmke on 20 Sep 14
       
      I agree with the author on this point.  Using well-written rubrics and sharing with students before and during the project for self-assessment is critical for closing the achievement gap. There is a whole group of students who do not know what a teacher "wants". 
  • imilarly, Heidi Andrade, in her study, “The Effects of Rubrics on Learning to Write,” has found that, while rubrics increased her students’ knowledge of the grading criteria and helped most of her students (especially the young male students) do well on the state writing test, many of the young female students, who had been more expressive in previous writing assignments, wrote poorly when writing, as we might say, to the rubric.
    • Lynn Helmke
      Lynn Helmke on 21 Sep 14
       
      Very interesting points about the negative side of rubrics for students who may be gifted in the area of writing. Because my career has focused on students who are struggling, it makes me aware of how "one size does not fit all."  I guess the gifted student writer has to learn how to pass the State Assessment and then encouraged and mentored to grow in their gift of writing....interesting.
    • Diane Jackson
      Diane Jackson on 21 Sep 14
       
      I thought this was very interesting too. Rubrics may stifle creativity especially when we want students to be creative thinkers and writers.
    • criley55
      criley55 on 29 Sep 14
       
      I thought this made interesting points as we are working so hard to create rubrics, we have to also think about those students whose work could be so much more but they are fitting into the constraints of the rubric.
  • Steps in developing a scoring rubric
    • Lynn Helmke
      Lynn Helmke on 21 Sep 14
       
      Building a good rubric takes time and patience.  I appreciate seeing these steps.  I am keeping a copy of this article on my computer. I really could keep it just in Diigo. :)
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 21 Sep 14
       
      I find this list of steps helpful as well and a good reference tool.
  • How well is the rubric tied to instruction? That is, does the rubric use the same critical vocabulary used in our instruction?
    • Lynn Helmke
      Lynn Helmke on 21 Sep 14
       
      i appreciate the author stating that another criteria is that the rubric is tied to instruction and uses the same critical vocabulary. High stakes state testing is here.  But, I prefer to put my energy into increasing student learning so that all students can feel successful in school.....closing the achievement gap.....and not just measured by state tests.
    • Joanne Cram
      Joanne Cram on 23 Sep 14
       
      This is a very valid point here- I find that when working with special education students, they tend to struggle when different vocabulary and/or sets of presentation materials are used in assessment.
  • rubrics can be either “general” or “specific
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 21 Sep 14
       
      I can see the benefits of both a general or specific rubric. This also gives teachers options as to where the focus might be along with the outcomes.
    • Joanne Cram
      Joanne Cram on 23 Sep 14
       
      If a rubric is going to be of a more "general" type, I struggle to implement that data when looking at it for elibibility discussion.
  • Pilot test your rubric or checklist on actual samples of student work
    • Kathleen Goslinga
      Kathleen Goslinga on 21 Sep 14
       
      I like the idea of a pilot test. This could be done during a students first draft and would give the teacher an opportunity to make revisions prior to the final being assessed.
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 21 Sep 14
       
      This could be another place where student involvement in developing the rubric could come into play.  Having the students use a rubric to assess their own work but at the same time assessing the rubric to see if it could be more detailed or written in more student friendly language.
  • The issue of weighting may be another area in which you can enlist the help of students. At the beginning of the process, you could ask a student to select to select which aspect she values the most in her writing and weight that aspect when you assess her paper.
    • jbdecker
      jbdecker on 21 Sep 14
       
      This seems like an easy way to personalize instruction and help students focus on and grow in areas where they may have a deficit.
    • criley55
      criley55 on 29 Sep 14
       
      I understand the importance of eliciting student input when creating a rubric but hadn't thought of it with weighing different aspects.
  • When instructors plan on grading student thinking and not just student knowledge, they should articulate the vital features that they are looking for and make these features known to the student.
    • Nicole Wood
      Nicole Wood on 21 Sep 14
       
      It certainly only seems logical to share rubrics with students when assignments are given, but I know this isn't always practiced. It shouldn't be a secret what features will be graded. Rubrics provide students with a clear vision of what is expected of them and helps guide their work.
    • Evan Abbey
      Evan Abbey on 21 Sep 14
       
      This does defeat the purpose, doesn't it? Go to all that work to set expectations, and then not give students those expectations.
    • Joanne Cram
      Joanne Cram on 23 Sep 14
       
      When I was teaching, I used rubrics as part of my instruction. When clear expectations are set for students, they know what to aim for- and performance is usually higher.
  • understandable to the student but also be linked specifically to classroom instruction
    • Nicole Wood
      Nicole Wood on 21 Sep 14
       
      In the primary grades, I think it can be a challenge to find "understandable" language. I do believe that incorporating the language from the rubric into classroom instruction will help bridge the gap between being student friendly and also specific enough for adults to grade accurately.
    • Adrian Evans
      Adrian Evans on 22 Sep 14
       
      In the high school setting, I find that giving the students the rubric that I am going to use to grade them, when I give them the assignment, allows for transparency (I'm not playing "Gotcha") and allows for the students to ask specifically what I am looking for, which then allows them to gear their work to what I am looking for as opposed to just hoping that they got it correct.
  • The argument against using rubrics
    • Nicole Wood
      Nicole Wood on 21 Sep 14
       
      As I read through the arguments against rubrics, I couldn't help but think that most of the drawbacks to rubrics could be avoided with well written rubrics. However, the majority of my experiences with rubrics are in the primary grades where I didn't encounter many of the problems they mentioned.
  • First, you must decide whether you need a rubric. Consider what the purpose of assessment is.
    • Diane Jackson
      Diane Jackson on 21 Sep 14
       
      Not everything needs a rubric. Should always think first what is the purpose of it. Good point to remember.
  • The second step is deciding who your audience is going to be. If the rubric is primarily used for instruction and will be shared with your students, then it should be non-judgemental, free of educational jargon, and reflect the critical vocabulary that you use in your classroom.
    • Diane Jackson
      Diane Jackson on 21 Sep 14
       
      Good question to ask. How will it be used. Hadn't really thought about this...a rubric's use for instruction and sharing it with the students in the learning process.
  • While longer scales make it harder to get agreement among scorers (inter-rater reliability),
    • Nicole Wood
      Nicole Wood on 21 Sep 14
       
      I have always tended to think that longer scales were better since very rarely a student fits perfectly within a specific criteria. However, I never really considered the added challenge of ensuring more consistency among scorers.
  • Both types of rubrics benefit the teacher and the student in varying degrees: the teacher who relies on a general rubric does not have to develop a new one for each assignment and the student grows to understand fundamental standards in writing—like form and coherence—exist across the board; meanwhile, the teacher that uses specific rubrics is always composing new descriptions of quality work, but their students have clearer directions for each assignment. Of course, a teacher could have the best of both worlds here, by designing a rubric on a PC that allows for the easy insertion of assignment specific traits.
    • Diane Jackson
      Diane Jackson on 21 Sep 14
       
      I think this is a great idea. Having a general rubric and a specific rubric. Also have it on your computer so it is easily changed or tweaked to meet the assignment.
  • assess outcomes in learning situations that require critical thinking and are multidimensional.
    • bgeanaea11
      bgeanaea11 on 22 Sep 14
       
      Using rubrics for their intended use seems to make them much more meaningful.
  • “on what students have actually learned rather than what they have been taught,”
    • bgeanaea11
      bgeanaea11 on 22 Sep 14
       
      Love this! Absolutely!
  • contends that we ought to illicit student input when constructing rubrics:
    • bgeanaea11
      bgeanaea11 on 22 Sep 14
       
      I could not agree more! What a great way to increase student engagement in THEIR learning!
  • According to Thomas Newkirk, an English professor at the University of New Hampshire, “rubrics promote ‘mechanical instruction in writing’ that bypasses ‘the human act of composing and the human gesture of response’” (Mathews). This overly scientific view of writing, Newkirk and others argue, stunts the learning process. Moreover, Judith Halden-Sullivan sees a disconnect between the learning goals of Writing Across the Curriculum programs and the rubrics often designed to assess that learning. Assessment of this sort seems at odds with such concepts as “deep learning,” which implies a kind of learning that is beyond measurement, an elusive hard to describe enlightenment, but identifiable in the same way good art is: teachers know deep learning when they see it. Rubrics, Halden-Sullivan contends, reduce “deep learning” to “checksheets.”
  • According to Thomas Newkirk, an English professor at the University of New Hampshire, “rubrics promote ‘mechanical instruction in writing’ that bypasses ‘the human act of composing and the human gesture of response’” (Mathews). This overly scientific view of writing, Newkirk and others argue, stunts the learning process. Moreover, Judith Halden-Sullivan sees a disconnect between the learning goals of Writing Across the Curriculum programs and the rubrics often designed to assess that learning. Assessment of this sort seems at odds with such concepts as “deep learning,” which implies a kind of learning that is beyond measurement, an elusive hard to describe enlightenment, but identifiable in the same way good art is: teachers know deep learning when they see it. Rubrics, Halden-Sullivan contends, reduce “deep learning” to “checksheets.”
  • According to Thomas Newkirk, an English professor at the University of New Hampshire, “rubrics promote ‘mechanical instruction in writing’ that bypasses ‘the human act of composing and the human gesture of response’” (Mathews). This overly scientific view of writing, Newkirk and others argue, stunts the learning process. Moreover, Judith Halden-Sullivan sees a disconnect between the learning goals of Writing Across the Curriculum programs and the rubrics often designed to assess that learning. Assessment of this sort seems at odds with such concepts as “deep learning,” which implies a kind of learning that is beyond measurement, an elusive hard to describe enlightenment, but identifiable in the same way good art is: teachers know deep learning when they see it. Rubrics, Halden-Sullivan contends, reduce “deep learning” to “checksheets.”
  • , “rubrics promote ‘mechanical instruction in writing’ that bypasses ‘the human act of composing and the human gesture of response’”
    • bgeanaea11
      bgeanaea11 on 22 Sep 14
       
      Interesting perspective. I can see where this could happen with a rubric, but a good rubric should not.
  • Does the rubric relate to the outcome(s) being measured? Does it address anything extraneous? […] Does it cover important dimensions of student performance? Do the criteria reflect current conceptions of excellence in the field? […] Are the dimensions and scales well defined? […] Is there a clear basis for assigning scores at each scale point? […] Can different scorers consistently apply the rubric? […] Can students and parents understand the rubric? […] Is the rubric developmentally appropriate? […] Can the rubric be applied to a variety of tasks? […] Is the rubric fair and free from bias? Does it reflect teachable skills or does it address variables over which students and educators have no control, such as the student’s culture, gender or home resources? […] Is the rubric useful, feasible, manageable and practical? […] Will it provide the kind of information you need and can use effectively?
    • bgeanaea11
      bgeanaea11 on 22 Sep 14
       
      Some great resources, advice and questions to help develop quality rubrics that meet their intended purpose!
  • using rubrics to establish “performance benchmarks” for the “behavioral objectives” appropriate to each year in the program.
    • Adrian Evans
      Adrian Evans on 22 Sep 14
       
      Rubrics for performance benchmarks that applicable to each year's objectives shows that they are not just using rubrics to use them, but that they are specific and aimed at the performance of the students.
    • Joanne Cram
      Joanne Cram on 23 Sep 14
       
      I have been working with my district on standards based grading. I think rubrics can shape the standards in relation to quantitative data.
  • accurately measuring the specific entity the instructor intends to measure consistently student after student
    • Adrian Evans
      Adrian Evans on 22 Sep 14
       
      Rubrics help the teacher/professor/assessor maintain consistency throughout the grading period, it makes sure that personal feeling are limited and gets rid of the "Oh I know that they know this so I'll give them the points".
  • “Perhaps the greatest potential value of classroom assessment is realized when we open the assessment process up and welcome students into that process as full partners”
    • ajbeyer
      ajbeyer on 23 Sep 14
       
      I think this is key. I as a student like to know what I am being graded on and I think it's important to share that with my students too. If the students know what they are being graded on, it will most likely help them to relax a little more.
  • In any case, withholding assessment tools (whether they are rubrics or more nebulous modes of evaluation) from students is not only unfair and makes self-assessment more difficult, it maintains the traditional gap between what the teacher knows and what the student knows.
  • In any case, withholding assessment tools (whether they are rubrics or more nebulous modes of evaluation) from students is not only unfair and makes self-assessment more difficult, it maintains the traditional gap between what the teacher knows and what the student knows.
    • ajbeyer
      ajbeyer on 23 Sep 14
       
      Holding back rubrics and the way teachers are grading from students is kind of like giving the "gotcha" at the end of the assignment. I know when I am not clear on my directions, I get 500 questions about it. When I am clear and students know what they will be graded on, it is better for both of us.
  • Be prepared to evaluate your rubric, using your meta-rubric and feedback—direct feedback from the students and indirect feedback from the quality of their work. Modify accordingly.
    • ajbeyer
      ajbeyer on 23 Sep 14
       
      Evaluation and reflection are key to good teaching. It should also be key to analyzing a rubric. If it's not working, make sure that it's redone and give it a try again. This should be an ongoing cycle.
    • ajbeyer
      ajbeyer on 23 Sep 14
       
      This was a key "a-ha" for me. I think that rubrics are over used. Not everything can or needs to be assessed via a rubric. The key question for teachers should be first "What am I assessing?" then "Will a rubric meet the needs of what I am assessing?" So many times a rubric is used and it doesn't match what needs to be assessed.
  • bgeanaea11 on 22 Sep 14
     
    Interesting history and original use. It is important to clarify what we mean by "rubric" in education.
francysmaureen

Organization & Preparation Tips | Garr Reynolds Official Site - 3 views

www.garrreynolds.com/...prepare

shared by francysmaureen on 13 Jul 14 - No Cached
  • pen and paper.
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 13 Jul 14
       
      white board -sticky notes- mind webbing on the computer or on paper-free thinking or brainstorming with a partner-tape recording or writing down It helps to keep a list of pre writing activities handy.Start with the three big ideas. make sure they are stated concisely!
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 13 Jul 14
       
      Keep it simple! You don't want someone to turn off or to walk away overwhelmed. The elevator test: If you don't have enough passion or interest in you subject you will fail this test and your presentation would probably fail also. Follow your heart!
  • and reduce anxiety and nervousness, then confidence is something that will naturally take the place of your anxiety
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 13 Jul 14
       
      I wish!
    • pattyharris123
      pattyharris123 on 31 Jul 14
       
      Yes, confidence will improve, but some of us have that natural anxiety when presenting in front of a group.
  • ...12 more annotations...
  • n. When you remove the unknown
    • jessicawoods8
      jessicawoods8 on 16 Jul 14
       
      What a great quote! I feel this is why I become a better teacher every year. The unknown is gone so I can be confident in what I am teaching my students. 
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 13 Jul 14
       
      Simple is not easy but I think it is most important. If it is too complex your audience might even remember the wrong thing - for instance what you said not to do.
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 13 Jul 14
       
      The best presentations do include a story! I need to use this in my presentations. 
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 16 Jul 14
       
      Story telling! I love to read and to hear a good story. I need to remember to use this! I have to agree that the best presentations I have heard lead me down the path of a story. 
  • it is useful to think of your entire 30 minute presentation as an opportunity to “tell a story.”
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 13 Jul 14
       
      Yes! I need to remember this!
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 16 Jul 14
       
      yes I need to do this.
  • one entire wall
    • Patty Harrell
      Patty Harrell on 16 Jul 14
       
      Confidence. As soon as I look at the audience I freeze. In front of my students or a small group I am fine, but I struggle with a larger group no matter how much I know my subject. 
  • Stories are easy to remember for your audience
    • jessicawoods8
      jessicawoods8 on 16 Jul 14
       
      I agree! When a topic or new skill is presented with a story, I tend to remember it better! 
  • What are their expectations of you?
    • jessicawoods8
      jessicawoods8 on 16 Jul 14
       
      What a great way to think about things! Instead of thinking about what I want to teach the audience, I can think about the expectations of the audience.
  • A data dump — all too common unfortunately — is when a presenter crams too much information into the talk without making the effort to make the information or data applicable to the members of the audience.
    • jessicawoods8
      jessicawoods8 on 20 Jul 14
       
      I have been in many presentations that felt like this! An audience wants to know the "why." I think it's important to include why the information is applicable to the audience.
  • It may be cool, but is it important or help your story in a very important way…or is it fluff?
    • jessicawoods8
      jessicawoods8 on 16 Jul 14
       
      I have been guilty of "adding fluff" to a presentation. I like the idea of asking yourself "so what?".
  • if your presentation is not based on solid content, you can not succeed
    • francysmaureen
      francysmaureen on 16 Sep 15
       
      We need to cite research to give our words a backbone
  • you have your key points and logical flow
    • francysmaureen
      francysmaureen on 16 Sep 15
       
      We all need a plan to follow and an order to follow to achieve anything. Presentations are not an exception.
Mary Overholtzer

ollie1: Iowa Online Course Standards - 2 views

moodle.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by Mary Overholtzer on 17 May 11 - No Cached
  • (K-12) • Information literacy and communication skills are incorporated and taught as an integral part of the curriculum.
    • Mary Trent
      Mary Trent on 17 May 11
       
      Communication is key in online classes. I know I have been lost a time or two. I like checklists of requirements for the course.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 19 May 11
       
      Information literacy becomes even more important as more resources are available for our students. They need the tools to be able to filter through all the information out there and search out what is best. Middle school kids seem very willing to believe it if they saw it on the internet.
    • mhauser
      mhauser on 22 May 11
       
      I'm 57 years old. My dad, who had an eighth grade education and would be in his 90s were he still alive used to tell us, "Don't believe everything you hear." He would also say, "Don't believe everything you read." My dad was wise. We need to be skeptics. Everyone needs to ask the questions, Who is sharing this information? Why should I believe them? What is their purpose? How old is this information? Can I understand the context in which it's offered? I'm a teacher librarian. I've been working on this for 16 years and love that information literacy is in these standards.
    • Mary Overholtzer
      Mary Overholtzer on 12 Jun 11
       
      Communication is the hardest thing I do as a wife, mother, teacher, and friend. When I think I am communicating well, it's obvious that others are not!!!! HA! The hardest job I will every do is communicating.
  • • The course design provides opportunities for appropriate instructor-student interaction, including timely and frequent feedback about student progress based on the learning targets.
    • Mary Trent
      Mary Trent on 17 May 11
       
      It's important to encourage students to feel comfortable to ask questions especially when they are lost. Quick, easy, multiple ways to contact the instructor are important.
    • Julia Schreckengast
      Julia Schreckengast on 18 May 11
       
      I would agree so many students are too afraid to ask questions in front of a class. They are just satisfied with not knowing rather than risking embarassment.
    • Laura Eklund
      Laura Eklund on 18 May 11
       
      I am involved in a grant program that is about blending the online teaching with face-to-face teaching, which will make the instructor-student interaction easier.
    • Bob Pauk
      Bob Pauk on 19 May 11
       
      Obviously this is important, but also challenging when you see as many as 150 students per day. It makes things like clickers and online communicaiton that much more important.
    • Nancy Peterman
      Nancy Peterman on 19 May 11
       
      Technology has made instructor-student interaction easier, while also making it difficult for students to not become involved. Students quickly see that they are accountable and instructors can track their participation.
    • Kevin Kemp
      Kevin Kemp on 22 May 11
       
      Students and instructors both need feedback in order to achieve.  Progress can only be achieved with an ongoing, positive conversation
  • All resources and materials used in the course are appropriately cited and obey copyright and fair use.
    • crjessen44
      crjessen44 on 18 May 11
       
      This is something I would like to know more about in the on-line world. I'm not sure on certain issues relating to this and would like to be more clear on my understanding.
    • Ashley Weaver
      Ashley Weaver on 18 May 11
       
      I would also like information, especially about fair use!
    • Deborah Ausborn
      Deborah Ausborn on 19 May 11
       
      This is one of the greatest concerns I have in planning an online course. I did find a section in the orientation materials for this course that addressed it. It is called "Copyright BriefNotes" and is available from the AEA. I can't tell you exactly where I found it; explored way too many links to be able to retrace my steps and the printout doesn't have a web address. It was a pdf file on a link.
    • Kathy Hageman
      Kathy Hageman on 20 May 11
       
      It is critical that we model appropriate citing, observance of copyright, and fair use for our students. My middle schoolers have difficulty grasping both the significance and the proper methods of these concepts.
    • Jessica White
      Jessica White on 23 May 11
       
      This is one of the most important details! Yes, middle school students struggle with citing. It is only going to be more important as more and more online resources are available.
    • Deb Ritchie
      Deb Ritchie on 23 May 11
       
      I'm pretty clear on rights for print materials, but less sure when the item in question is a graphic, picture, etc. Does it make a difference that our course is only available to students in our classroom and not going out to the world wide web?
  • ...27 more annotations...
  • Sufficient learning resources and materials to increase student success are available to students
    • crjessen44
      crjessen44 on 18 May 11
       
      This is where I think Moodle or other similar tools will have an advantage. I like that I will be able to group all relevant resources together for students. I have a lot of resources right now but they are all scattered..
    • Nancy Peterman
      Nancy Peterman on 19 May 11
       
      I definitely agree with you about these online tools making resources more available. Like you, I have many resources in many locations. I am gradually moving the resources to my Moodle course pages and plan to expand this to include Diigo. Grouping the resources will provide students with a consistent location while working and provide me with a better method for keeping web pages current.
  • Ongoing and frequent assessments
    • Ashley Weaver
      Ashley Weaver on 18 May 11
       
      Formative assessments?
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 19 May 11
       
      Good question - Would this be a good spot for using some of the online quiz tools that we saw on the Cool Tools website? Is it easier or harder to complete formative assessments in an online setting?
  • Instructions to students on how to meet the learning objectives are adequate and stated clearly.
    • rcordes1961
      rcordes1961 on 18 May 11
       
      AS Stiggens said many years ago, students need to know the target before attempting to hit the target. Trying to hit a moving target is frustrating and difficult for everyone!
    • Deborah Ausborn
      Deborah Ausborn on 19 May 11
       
      How true! It is important that the students clearly know what is expected of them.
    • Kathy Hageman
      Kathy Hageman on 20 May 11
       
      My nine-year old even undertands this! He recently commented, "This assignment would be so much easier if (the teacher) had given us a rubric."
    • Kevin Kemp
      Kevin Kemp on 22 May 11
       
      If our students don't know what to expect, what are we doing?  Students need and deserve to know what they are responsible to know.
    • mhauser
      mhauser on 22 May 11
       
      I need to get better about making clear daily objectives. That's new to me, but my faculties have their learning goals posted on their walls each day. It's great for everybody. Kathy, I love what your son said. Kevin, you are right on the money!
    • Victoria Guilliatt
      Victoria Guilliatt on 26 May 11
       
      I put my lesson objectives on the board when I teach my elementary library classes, it makes it easier for the students to know what I expect.
    • Mary Overholtzer
      Mary Overholtzer on 12 Jun 11
       
      What's amazing to me is when I have a student say, "Give me a rubric, and I can easily get an A with less effort." This scares me....to me it's a way of putting forth mediocre work by "beating" the system. Tha'ts why every rubric I build has a perception component of quality when comparing project/discussions/etc with peers.
  • Assessment strategies and tools, such as "self-check" or practice assignments, make the student continuously aware of his/her progress in class and mastery of the content beyond letter grades.
    • Julia Schreckengast
      Julia Schreckengast on 18 May 11
       
      I am going to try to use next year with my CoPi blended classroom.
    • Amy Kemp
      Amy Kemp on 22 May 11
       
      I hope to create some practice problems or a quiz using Softchalk.  I have never created anything myself for them to do online.
  • The course instruction includes activities that engage students in active learning
    • Laura Eklund
      Laura Eklund on 18 May 11
       
      This is a great place for the cool tools for school, but there are so many out there I don't know where to begin. Also, it seems like everytime I find a tool that engages students a new and better tool comes out and I have relearn everything about that tool.
  • The course instruction includes activities that engage students in active learning
    • Bob Pauk
      Bob Pauk on 19 May 11
       
      Students today live in a different world than the one most of us in this class experienced when we were young. Sitting for 45 minutes with nothing more than an overhead projector or chalkboard to look at and nothing more than a teachers voice to hear is just completely out of touch with the way students experience things outside of the classroom. As educators we need to keep that in mind or we really will have kids bored to death.
    • Joleen Louwsma
      Joleen Louwsma on 19 May 11
       
      Students are multitaskers and grow bored when not challenged. Active and interactive learning is one way to keep them engaged. I also feel that as teachers we need to change our " tools" and raise the bar for learning.
    • mhauser
      mhauser on 22 May 11
       
      In most classes, I think we have about 10 minutes to direct students toward the learning that we hope will happen that day. Then we have to let them get started on their learning and coach them as needed for the rest of the class. If there is confusion or a common thread shows up during the class time, the coach/facilitator/teacher might stop the student work to explain, or to have a student explain the issue, but otherwise, the focus is definitely not on the teacher. It's not about us. ;-)
  • • Academic integrity and netiquette (Internet etiquette) expectations regarding lesson activities, discussions, e-mail communications and plagiarism are clearly stated
    • Matt Tracy
      Matt Tracy on 19 May 11
       
      This, I believe, is more and more important because our students really struggle with understanding that once something is on the web, it's out there for good. They also struggle with understanding just the basics of appropriateness.
    • Kathy Hageman
      Kathy Hageman on 21 May 11
       
      Do you think that in many cases students do know what is appropriate and what is not? I think that students sometimes push the limits to see if the instructor cares enough to hold them accountable.
  • The course goals and objectives are measurable and clearly state what the participants will know or be able to do at the end of the course
    • Bob Pauk
      Bob Pauk on 19 May 11
       
      This one is so simple, yet doing this effectively is probably on of the most important things an instructor can do to avoid problems down the road.
    • rcordes1961
      rcordes1961 on 19 May 11
       
      I agree, Bob. I think sometimes we believe students are suppose to be mind readers when it comes to what they will learn or be able to do.
    • Jason Gomez
      Jason Gomez on 07 Jun 11
       
      My school went to putting the learning target on the board everyday. I think it was good, but should be incorporated with a "ticket out the door" activity.
  • Instruction provides students with multiple learning paths to master the content, addressing individual student needs, learning styles and preferences
    • Deborah Ausborn
      Deborah Ausborn on 19 May 11
       
      I really love the idea that we can tailor courses to meet the needs of individual students. I would like to explore ways to have various paths leading to mastery. Once a student has mastered a concept, he or she can move on to the next concept. A student who needs more practice could be redirected to more learning activities on the same concept. One size does not fit all.
    • Kathy Hageman
      Kathy Hageman on 20 May 11
       
      As I learn more about online learning and using Moodle, I am excited about the possibilities for differentiation. I see this as one of the greatest strengths of the format.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 20 May 11
       
      I love the idea of giving students ownership in their learning!
  • Technologies are chosen that are accessible to students
    • rcordes1961
      rcordes1961 on 19 May 11
       
      We need to keep in mind not all students have internet access at home. Online learning cannot be another way of separating the haves from the have nots.
    • Tresa Zaragoza
      Tresa Zaragoza on 20 May 11
       
      This is the one that worries me the most. Between having enough computers and having them work when we need them.
  • A clear, complete course overview and syllabus are included in the course
    • Joleen Louwsma
      Joleen Louwsma on 19 May 11
       
      This is an important factor in making a successful class. What I think is clear and concise may be confusing to my students. Writing the syllabus, the course overview, expectations, and lesson instructions will be an ongoing process.
  • Instructions make clear how to get started and where to find various course components
    • Kathy Hageman
      Kathy Hageman on 20 May 11
       
      As students in this course, many of us understand that it may be easy to be overwhelmed when starting out in online learning. We help our students with simple and clear guidance.
    • Mary Overholtzer
      Mary Overholtzer on 12 Jun 11
       
      As time goes on, what we consider to be so difficult, becomes easier as time goes on. We must note that while we teach online learners---and naturally, while they teach us too.
  • The requirements for student work, including student interaction, are clearly articulated.
    • Kathy Hageman
      Kathy Hageman on 20 May 11
       
      Limited experiences teaching online have taught me that the quality of student interaction rises significantly when there are rubrics that spell out expectations for student posts. Otherwise, students easily slip into the language and style of non-academic online social interactions.
  • The course provider offers the course teacher, school coordinator assistance with technical support and course management. .
    • April Tidwell
      April Tidwell on 21 May 11
       
      I feel this is so important. One of my biggest concerns about going 1:1 next year is the lack of tech support. I haven't seen any plan to increase the tech department, and I often have to wait days to get answers currently from the help desk. Students get extremely frustrated when technology doesn't work especially if there is no one there to help them.
  • The course provides opportunities for appropriate student interaction with the content to foster mastery and application of the material.
    • Heather Gould
      Heather Gould on 21 May 11
       
      Rigor and Relevance is the Characteristic of Effective Instruction that comes to mind as I read this. Good instruction is good instruction, regardless of the teaching modality. In a student-centered environment, as this suggests, students are encouraged to collaborate with others as they take their new knowledge and apply it.
    • Steven Petersen
      Steven Petersen on 21 May 11
       
      This is critical. Without face-to-face interaction there has to be a method put in place for frequent contact by the teacher. Students always have questions and an inability to address those questions will lead to frustration.
  • The course accommodates multiple school calendars; e.g., block, 4X4 and traditional schedules
    • Steven Petersen
      Steven Petersen on 21 May 11
       
      Why should this matter. Unless it is a blended class the confines of the school schedule should be immaterial.
  • The course provides opportunities for appropriate instructor-student and student-student interaction to foster mastery and application of the material and a plan for monitoring that interaction.
    • hollysoby
      hollysoby on 22 May 11
       
      This is one I'm excited about - I'm hoping by mixing online with face to face learning I can have more interaction with quiet students - though I know from taking online classes it can be easy to just do enough to get by if there aren't a lot of opportunities to interact.
    • Tim Hadley
      Tim Hadley on 22 May 11
       
      I am hoping that is portion of the "face to face" is built in to help accomodate learning for students who are having trouble mastering the content. My worse fear of online learning is making the material move too quickly for students to keep up, making them frustrated and not positive learners.
  • The course structure includes a wide variety of assessment procedures to assess students’ mastery of content.
    • hollysoby
      hollysoby on 22 May 11
       
      This is something I feel like I need to be careful about - I think it's easy to get so excited about new ideas I throw a lot of projects at students at once - I need to think really hard about what I want to assess them on.
    • Tim Hadley
      Tim Hadley on 22 May 11
       
      Glad it isn't just me, I find that I also get pumped about something, throw it out to the students to "try" and then I realize at the end that I had no way to measure whether it was really effective or not.
  • • Grading policy and practices are easy to understand.
  • 21st century skills in the course, including: using 21st century skills in the core subjects, 21st century content, learning and thinking skills, ICT literacy, self-directed learning, global awareness
    • Tim Hadley
      Tim Hadley on 22 May 11
       
      Courses being online in and of themselves are 21st Century learning skills. However, I believe, online instruction should include more than just being posted on the internet. It should push students to be self-directed and global learners. Fulfilling this standard will take work, but I believe it is one of the most important goals of learning.
  • Hardware, web browser and software requirements, as well as prerequisite technology skills are specified.
    • Tim Hadley
      Tim Hadley on 22 May 11
       
      This is something I hadn't really thought about, but it makes sense. If students can't access your course from the beginning it would make it hard to impossible to be able to complete it.
  • Specific and descriptive criteria, including rubrics, are provided for the evaluation of students’ work and participation.
    • Jessica White
      Jessica White on 23 May 11
       
      This is always important to me as a teacher. Students must know how they are graded before the assignment/project is started. This would be the same with online learning.
  • The course provides opportunities for students to engage in higher-order thinking, critical-reasoning activities and thinking in increasingly complex ways
    • Deb Ritchie
      Deb Ritchie on 23 May 11
       
      This is the standard that I'm most interested in. How do we make sure students are not doing the same old things only now with a computer? We need to keep the bar up there for higher-order thinking skills and critical reasoning. I'm hoing to gather ideas from class to help me do this.
  • instructional materials are aligned with the content
    • Victoria Guilliatt
      Victoria Guilliatt on 26 May 11
       
      This is very important when I teach the elementary students in the library because it is very easy for them to become lost in the lesson
  • The course content and assignments are aligned with state’s content standards or nationally accepted content standards
    • Jason Gomez
      Jason Gomez on 07 Jun 11
       
      This always worries me; is the content of my class the same as the state's content? My district has gone to content mapping which makes it very easy to know that we are following state standards
amorarend

PLE Articles - 1 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by amorarend on 10 Feb 16 - No Cached
  • Not every student is ready for this responsibility, so teachers need to have strategies in place to guide and support these learners. In addition, teachers must pursue training and be knowledgeable of how to utilize PLEs to enhance learning and ensure that students are using this e-learning tool in a meaningful way
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Feb 16
       
      It is not enough just to have PLEs and use them in the classroom, a teacher needs to be able to provide intervention, conferring, and reteaching strategies to help the student understand the expectations. They need to know how to use the tool correctly. 
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 10 Feb 16
       
      Having the opportunity to collaborate with, visit schools supporting PLEs, or receive support from other professionals already comfortable with implementing PLEs would prove valuable on my journey to create learning environments to best meet my student needs. I so agree with your comment of teacher role.
    • wolson86
      wolson86 on 13 Feb 16
       
      This is a very powerful statement. I agree it is not just enough to have PLE's and use them. It is very important to have time to collaborate and have some professional development. Using PLE's teachers will be in a different role than in previous settings and will need the tools to support their students through this learning journey. 
  • Some instructors empower students to use their own mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones as a means to create PLEs. Others utilize sites such as Symbaloo or NetVibesas a foundation to help learners create and maintain their personal learning environments. Below is a video that shows how a 7th grade student uses Symbaloo as a PLE in her science class:
    • amorarend
      amorarend on 10 Feb 16
       
      How do students learn how to use their PLE? Do they take a class to learn how to correctly and effectively them or does each classroom teacher teach bits and pieces of it?
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 10 Feb 16
       
      I think this depends on the students.  Some kids can naturally figure out how things work and others will need a tutorial.  Ultimately the kids will choose a PLE that they feel comfortable with or already know how to use.
  • Teachers, she explains, are no longer the primary or even the best source of information available to students, and our work must increasingly attend to supporting students in developing their skills and motivations for becoming themselves networked and sophisticated online learners.
    • amorarend
      amorarend on 10 Feb 16
       
      Are schools going to provide training for teachers so they know how to use all of these PLE tools? I feel I would want to fully understand how to use all of these online tools before I teach my students how to use them.
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 12 Feb 16
       
      We also need to teach our students to think and learn on their own. They are used to being provided with resources, graphic organizers, and other tools to guide their thinking. This is a big shift in processing and responsibility for our students. Because they have never done this in earlier education, some will really struggle to adapt.
    • wolson86
      wolson86 on 13 Feb 16
       
      You pose great questions, "are schools going to provide training for teachers so they know how to use all of the PLE tools?" I agree educators will need more training to properly implement PLE's into their classrooms. The statement that teachers are no longer the primary or even the best source of information is a huge shift in thinking. Our jobs as educators will be to support our students on their on learning pathway. 
  • ...17 more annotations...
  • as an instructor, you can make a webmix quite interactive.
    • amorarend
      amorarend on 10 Feb 16
       
      Using this in a classroom would be helpful to catch students up who have been absent. 
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 12 Feb 16
       
      Yes! Or to be able to access it on their own if they are absent. There isn't an excuse to not be current or up to date if resources are always at their fingertips.
  • PLEs place a large amount of responsibility on students and thus requires a high level of self-management and awareness.
    • amorarend
      amorarend on 10 Feb 16
       
      This definitely seems more geared towards middle and high school students. Are their ways to create PLE's in the elementary classroom?
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 10 Feb 16
       
      I read in one of our assigned readings/videos that a PLE sometimes looks like the homescreen on a smart phone.  So an elementary student may have a variety of educational games that they have found/been provided that they would use for practice. Other kids' PLE may not involve technology at all, but instead be a manipulative, like counting blocks.  I know my own children (by birth) have been practicing multiplication with their Pokemon cards? My first grader couldn't handle using the iPad for sight word practice and had to go back to flash cards.  He learned what was acceptable and regained access.  While this classroom isn't necessarily PL, I would think the same concept applies? 
  • We also discussed that as they begin to work in inquiry circles next week and to collaborate on their digital research projects, they can create, publish, and share their topic webmixes with their peers so that they can collaborate and discover information sources through this form of networking/information sharing–I find this possibility exciting for the students, and they seemed impressed by this concept as well.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Feb 16
       
      This networking in inquiry circles sounds like a wonderful way for students to share their learning. It would also give students a way to have a voice for those you are more hesitant to share in the regular classroom. I have a lot of questions about how it all works. How do we prepare students for this work? Do they have basic grammar structures so their writing makes sense? I am unfamiliar with the websites being used. Do we need to have inservices to get all teachers "up-to-date" on what students will be using? And lastly, what constitutes a finished project? How do students know when they are done?  
  • we are in a new era where information is abundantly available and professionalism is far more about the effective manipulation– access, evaluation, &amp; application– it only makes sense to reorient learning toward facilitation of students’ “active role in the learning process” and teachers’ provision of the right balance between structured lessons and autonomy; let’s never forget it is an ongoing balancing act.&nbsp;
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Feb 16
       
      It is very clear the teacher and student roles are making a major shift. While we are changing the roles in the process, as educators, we need to have a unified understanding of what the balance needs to be or we will be giving students mixed messages. Students can quickly determine how to access what they need once they are given the tools but evaluation and process will require some lessons for the students AND the teachers. 
  • you can create tiles that link to challenges, quiz questions, polls, discussion forums, chat pages, and other types of content and media that will facilitate more student involvement and creativity
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 10 Feb 16
       
      Versatility and Opportunity which will allow for student work and communication in a personal learning environment with classroom connections. 
  • Personal learning environments (PLE) are a new approach to personalized learning that allows students to direct and manage their own learning experience while pursuing educational goals.
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 10 Feb 16
       
      Every Wednesday my district has a late start for students while teachers are receiving PD. Just this morning a discussion at my table involved brainstorming how to move students past doing just what's expected of them. How do we get their thinking to move past, "How many paragraphs/sentences do I need to write?" PL could be a tool to develop that independent learner.
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 12 Feb 16
       
      I agree, this will be the hardest step for our students! They are used to the traditional model of education with clear expectations and guidelines always structured and provided for them. We are trying to increase opportunities for students to be independent and accountable for their own learning and many are resistant. They know how to "play the game" of the traditional model of a school, so change can be intimidating.
  • Instead of a teacher providing resources that everyone uses, students can utilize their PLE to acquire information using preferred apps and resources such as blogs, YouTube, Pinterest, Ning or Delicious. The development of PLEs represents a shift in focus from teacher centered classrooms to more learner centered classrooms.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 10 Feb 16
       
      As I have been talking to my kids about PL, I heard (and have feared) someone say, "So we're doing the teacher's job?"  I think, like most changes in education, it's going to take some convincing/educating the parents as to what PL is and the role of the teacher.  Of course, I feel that it's all about how it's presented.  If you get the kids to understand their role and the teacher's role, you may not have these issues.
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 12 Feb 16
       
      This needs to start in elementary for it to be truly effective; I don't think we can expect secondary students who have not been taught how to learn in this environment to suddenly run with personal learning. While many of them think it sounds great, they haven't been conditioned to independence in their learning. They want everything provided for them and often don't know where to start when set off on their own. We need to teach students how to learn in this manner in order for it to be successful.
  • those policies are not going to change.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 10 Feb 16
       
      This is a systematic problem that needs to change in order to make PL work.  Restricting access is not the answer, and I believe we'll get there as a society.  If we want real life, the students need to understand when it's acceptable to do what.  I already know my students will struggle with this issue, but if they're engaged in their PL, they may not need those distractions.  As with any classroom management issue, expectations will need to be established and enforced when violated.  We read that adults even struggle with using technology appropriately in the workplace, so of course this will need addressed with students.
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 11 Feb 16
       
      On that thought, will our lifting those access restrictions at the elementary through secondary grade levels assist learners beyond the K-12 walls with using technology appropriately? Would it reduce the occurrence of workplace and adult inappropriate use of technology which seems to be sadly common place today?
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 12 Feb 16
       
      We have so many problems with restrictions on our devices. At our school, teachers have the same filters as the students also! They give us no passwords for administrative access or even the WiFi. How can we teach students to think critically when using the web if we simply restrict everything? Especially when it comes to teachers, this seems a bit demeaning. People will always use resources inappropriately. Unfortunately, that's just the way it works. Why restrict everyone due to the poor actions of a few?
  • ong have educators, from Aristotle to Dewey to Sizer, called for “learning by doing” and “student as worker,”
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 10 Feb 16
       
      I feel that this is where we are at as educators as well.  We need to "learn by doing" because a lot of us are doing a job we were never trained to do...and I'm not even that old!  I currently have a student teacher, and she's amazed (and a little scared) at what we're doing with our students with blended learning and also standards based grading.  She hasn't even graduated and she knows nothing of either of them!  Get ready, honey!  :)
  • The notion of a PLE for students, grounding them intentionally in an environment of information tools and productive applications, is a great way to seek, develop, and structure that balanced approach.
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 10 Feb 16
       
      As much of this as we can implement in our class is a step in the right direction.  We can only control so many variables of the school day, and that's ultimately what is holding a lot of us back from implementing true PL.  
  • Because you can link to an infinite variety of web pages and you can embed media
    • Megan Schulte
      Megan Schulte on 10 Feb 16
       
      We do SOOO much on Google Drive in our school, I'm interested in seeing how we could use them together or if this would be separate.
  • The concept of PLE is not a way to replace classroom learning,
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 10 Feb 16
       
      This is an important declarative to use when persuading teammates or administration to support the personal learning environment in your school. Like any differentiation piece, collaboration, individual student consideration of needs, and building a rigorous, yet attainable structure to learning is included with that design. Creating the PL to include technology students are frequenting, motivates students buying in to the idea at first.
    • wolson86
      wolson86 on 13 Feb 16
       
      I agree with this statement about not here to replace classroom learning but to enhance it. I also agree with your comment about how it is an important declarative when bringing the topic to co-teachers or administration. Education is always changing and administrators will want to listen if you have a way to enhance student learning. 
  • parents, email conversations, Facebook posts or even twitter hashtags. These interactions among their learning community reinforces learning and combats the often negative stereotypes associated with traditional learning techniques. Because PLEs are learner controlled, they are easily adapted to the learner’s day-to-day activities and interests both inside and outside of the classroom
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 10 Feb 16
       
      This all sounds great! I could easily believe my students would enjoy these social network interaction learning communities. However, it does form a question connecting to student safety. I'm wondering how districts already implementing PLEs are assuring students they are responsible for will be involved with a secure/safe learning experience?
  • my main priority is for students to have a tool they can use to organize their information streams and to create their own topic webmixes, and from what I’ve seen so far, Symbaloo definitely will meet those needs. As we begin venturing into our research the next two weeks and students begin developing their Symbaloo webmixes, I’ll continue to collect feedback from students on how this learning tool is working for them and how they are using it for themselves as well as within their groups–I’m excited to see what will happen.
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 11 Feb 16
       
      This grabs my interest! Not quite ready to plunge into this just yet, but could envision how this could greatly enhance students' research connected to problem-based learning situations I propose as extended learning projects with classroom teachers.
  • ymbaloo EDU
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 11 Feb 16
       
      In taking a glimpse at the Symbaloo EDU page, I was glad to find out it's compatibility with tablets. My students have personal Chrome Books, we often find certain apps and programs that aren't available to use with these.
  • ruth be told, I could stand to be more savvy in my own organizing of online learning and networking: I’ve been slow to use tools and develop skills for managing online resource, such as the use of vehicles like Symbaloo, Evernote, or Diigo, and I want to take inspiration from the 7th grade student in the video above to move forward in this way and learn and practive better these skills and with these tools.
    • lkmace
      lkmace on 11 Feb 16
       
      I often feel the same - slow to utilize the tools available. It's always well intent, but priority address other items at hand. I'm hoping this evolves as I develop more understanding of PLEs and their use for enhancing learning opportunities of those I instruct.
    • kelsi-johnson
      kelsi-johnson on 12 Feb 16
       
      Not to mention, once we master one tool...another one pops up! I try to stay current in technology through classes and our PD opportunity, but it is tough to stay on top of things. I think the best way to do this is to stick with one tool and work to know it well. Otherwise we fall into the trap of "jack of all trades, master of none!"
  • Learning isn’t germane to structured classroom environments alone; it occurs in both formal and informal settings.
    • wolson86
      wolson86 on 13 Feb 16
       
      I think this statement is very important for the heading why PLE's are beneficial. Showing learning can take place in both formal and informal settings. Often with the push to meet the standards and standardized tests teachers feel the need to focus on the formal learning setting, however the informal learning setting can actually prove to be more beneficial in my opinion.  
LaRae Arment

PLE Articles - 2 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by LaRae Arment on 14 Jun 17 - No Cached
  • The concept of PLE is not a way to replace classroom learning, but to enhance it.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 14 Jun 17
       
      I think this is important to point out at the beginning. At first, personalized learning (I believe) makes the teacher feel irrelevant. That's not true, but it seems like it.
  • PLEs place a large amount of responsibility on students and thus requires a high level of self-management and awareness
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 14 Jun 17
       
      I think this is good to point out. These skills aren't often turned over to the kids, so they must be explicitly taught. I think self-reflection is probably the best way to instill this in students.
    • heidimeyer
      heidimeyer on 15 Jun 17
       
      Teaching students how to self-manage is critical. I wonder how successful this is with younger elementary students.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 16 Jun 17
       
      I was wondering the same thing, Heidi, about how this would work for elementary students. I know we want this to be as student focused as possible, but I wonder if at first PLEs are modeled with students creating a basic one that has resources they have used before and are the same as the ones the teacher modeled and as students begin to work more with it, they can add their own resources. I slow work in progress.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      This is a major shift - it is a change in the culture of the school and the classroom as well for the individual. We have to support this transition.
    • efabscha
      efabscha on 17 Jun 17
       
      Heidi, I am also wondering the same thing. Do they have certain ages where personalized learning works best?
    • jhenning40
      jhenning40 on 20 Jun 17
       
      ckeninger, I think your idea of a modeled and guided first round is essential. That would help them see and understand the process before trying a "true" PLE.
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      YES! Digital citizenship and message etiquette cross curricular ideas!!
    • rmeyer1130
      rmeyer1130 on 28 Jun 17
       
      Great uses for teaching media etiquette!
    • rmeyer1130
      rmeyer1130 on 28 Jun 17
       
      But you do have to wonder about those kids who are not engaged and responsible... will a PLE make school harder? Or will you feel like you still invest lots of individual attention to kids who need it?
  • The idea of having one site to log into daily and then a pre-constructed &nbsp;dashboard of all the learning tools and spaces available to us seemed appealing
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 14 Jun 17
       
      That seems like a good way to let groups do research on their own but still with some facilitation. Throwing lots of resources on there, teaching them how to use them and skills required (as they come up), and then turn them loose.
    • heidimeyer
      heidimeyer on 15 Jun 17
       
      Wow! This is my first time learning about Symbaloo. What a great tool that allows students to quickly access what they need.
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      We set up a Symbaloo for my daughter's college search to keep all the websites handy for both of us. In a way, I felt like it was the same of just having bookmarks in a folder, but it looked cool.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I think it is a great tool if you learn to use it. I have helped people create it, but so many go to the same page every time they log in and then google everything as needed. It could be a great way to focus students and avoid surfing.
    • katieconnolly20
      katieconnolly20 on 17 Jun 17
       
      I also have never used symbaloo but find it to be very appealing. I think in the upper grade levels students would get a lot of use out of it. A question I have is how can it be successfully utilized in lower elementary classrooms? I think I could add sites that we use on computers but a lot of these sites require reading and my students are just learning how to read. Any ideas?
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 05 Jul 17
       
      I am unfamiliar with Symbaloo, but can see how it would be benefical to my students as an organization tool. I also see it as a time saver for students that are researching.
  • ...37 more annotations...
  • I only wish that students could edit the webmix in their own accounts (and if they can, I haven’t discovered how yet), but that is really a minor wrinkle for us at this point; I also wish I could publish the webmix with a public URL accessible to non-Symbaloo users.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 14 Jun 17
       
      These seem like the types of things I was going to have them do with this. Maybe not, but at the very least these are things to look into as I explore this resources.
  • A PLE is the method students use to organize their self-directed online learning, including the tools they employ to gather information, conduct research, and present their findings. &nbsp; &nbsp;As the name implies, PLEs give learners a high degree of control over their work by allowing them to customize the learning experience and connect to others, including experts in the field.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 14 Jun 17
       
      That's a great definition, so I marked it. It sort of encompasses what it is and why it's important, in addition to providing some ideas.
    • heidimeyer
      heidimeyer on 15 Jun 17
       
      Love this definition!
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      saving this definition to share with my students this fall....
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I think something like this is helpful to get everyone on the same page.
    • rmeyer1130
      rmeyer1130 on 28 Jun 17
       
      This is a great definition, as others have posted... but I just continue to see pros and cons to all this self-directed online learning for so many of our kids. Good for many... not the best fit for many others.
  • our work must increasingly attend to supporting students in developing their skills and motivations for becoming themselves networked and sophisticated online learners
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 14 Jun 17
       
      Nice! As an instructional coach, I've constantly been saying "the person talking is the person learning" (for two years!) in order to have the teachers understand that if they talk for the entire period (i.e. are the holder of all knowledge, content, and skills), all the students are getting is short term learning and dependence on the teacher. I feel like this is the same idea.
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      Indeed, working with students to become not only savvy consumers of media and information ("fake news?"), but working with students to sharpen the skill of organization of said information is key to their navigating an increasingly complex information-world.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I agree - however I don't know how many of my colleagues do. This all goes back to being student centered and student driven.
  • ou can provide a tile linking to a web page describing a number&nbsp; of exploratory activities a student will need to engage in, but make the path for accomplishing these activities (e.g., the numbers and types of tiles used) up to the student.
    • arieux1
      arieux1 on 14 Jun 17
       
      Now that's a good idea!
  • teachers’ provision of the right balance between structured lessons and autonomy; let’s never forget it is an ongoing balancing act.
    • heidimeyer
      heidimeyer on 15 Jun 17
       
      I love this and want to strive for this but this also terrifies me. I'm in the "awareness" stage of learning about PL. My concerns are, How will I truly balance this? Is it the right balance?
    • jhenning40
      jhenning40 on 20 Jun 17
       
      I'm also concerned about balance for each individual student. Some students will naturally blossom with independent learning, but others will need more consistent help until they have the skills or confidence to do more independent work (hopefully only at first, I anticipate some will need continuous support)
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      I love opening a highlighted section to make a comment...and there's more than just ME thinking about the "perfect balance." It means I'm not alone in being anxious about it. Part of me believes that, like SBG and common core, students will adapt and this will become second nature to them if we present it in a positive manner like we do know what's best for them- because we do. :)
  • as an instructor, you can make a webmix quite interactive.
    • heidimeyer
      heidimeyer on 15 Jun 17
       
      I like that the instructor can still play a role in students' Symbaloo. The examples given are a great way to engage students.
  • Learning Management Systems (LMS)
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 16 Jun 17
       
      There is great information describing the differences between LMS and PLE but what is a specifc example of a LMS? Would this be like our school library reference page that has specific links that students use for the states projects year after year?
  • Teachers are challenged to provide the appropriate balance between structured lessons and learner autonomy in order to facilitate self-directed learning
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 16 Jun 17
       
      Where is this balance? Is there is a suggested ratio of teacher input/lesson to student directed learning? Does it depend on the age of the student?
    • katieconnolly20
      katieconnolly20 on 17 Jun 17
       
      These are great questions. I have found myself wondering the same thing. For me, allowing my students to be their own learners and not depend on me is a hard concept for me to grasp. I am a kindergarten teacher. It make me question at what age is this all appropriate and how can I set up my students to be able to be successful learners on their own. Many of my students are not responsible enough to handle facilitating their own learning. Does anyone have ideas on how I can prepare them for this?
    • eswartzendruber
      eswartzendruber on 17 Jun 17
       
      I agree. I keep reading that there's a balance or strategies, but I'm unsure of what those are.
    • jhenning40
      jhenning40 on 20 Jun 17
       
      I also wonder: does it have to be an equal balance? What I mean is does the process start with a more teacher-heavy interaction, where the teacher frontloads, teaches strategies, and models; once students have that background knowledge, does the balance shift to student-centered? The balance may not always be equal, but on the whole both groups play an equal part -- just something I"m curious about as I think about how I might create this type of learning in my own class.
    • rmeyer1130
      rmeyer1130 on 28 Jun 17
       
      Agreed. The balance between human contact and online learning. Life skills learned through working and playing with each other cannot take a backseat to online skill progress.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 05 Jul 17
       
      I agree with the balance. From experience with our students and using online programs. Communication and soft skills are some of those skills that can't be learned online.
  • The gallery view allows you to preview webmixes before adding them to your Symbaloo dashboard.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 16 Jun 17
       
      Wow! I didn't know you could search for webmixes and then add them to your dashboard. I wonder if other teachers have created webmixes for their students to reference. A teacher could make a webmix to share with students on their personal dashboards to get them started. What a great example of the collaboration of online tools.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 05 Jul 17
       
      It would be nice if there are already created webmixes out there to help get a start in learning how to utilize Symbaloo.
  • on.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 16 Jun 17
       
      Wow! There are a lot of components to the Networked Student in the image below. My concern is ensuring students have the foundation for these components before they start PL. Practicing digital responsibility is an important piece. When we provide students with technology, we are giving them access to a lot of information and responsibilty. This can be positive or negative.
  • chart
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      Ah ha! I was just wondering whether NTN's "Echo" system would be my students' PLE...nope. I'm curious to keep reading to see how Echo can blend with a PLE for my PBL students next year...
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      Also...I'm saving these images throughout the class to my Pinterest Board for further reference!
  • social media platform
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      Could a Google Classroom or Google Hangout that students create be considered a PLE?
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 05 Jul 17
       
      I also wondered this as I was reading the article. I use Google classroom but more as an information board for student organization.
  • learner controlled
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      In this way, PLEs seem to mirror one defining component of PL: learned controlled. But, I would assume the "facilitator" (teacher) would also have access....
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I think as we learn about how to be the facilitators in courses like this, we also need to think about how we will train our students to be this type of learner.
  • Netvibes
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      Okay - I've never heard of Netvibes...I'll check it out as a possibility for my pbl students this fall.
  • the aggregato
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      catchy name: the aggregator!
  • A collection of resources related to a problem-based learning challenge
    • julie_carroll
      julie_carroll on 16 Jun 17
       
      And here is the "fit" for New Tech...we will definitely be offering Symbaloo as a PLE option for our PBL students!
  • These tools provide a medium for students to create their own learning space that is more natural and unique to their interests and learning styles
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      The only problem is when a student doesn't want to use the tech - rare, but it happens.
    • katieconnolly20
      katieconnolly20 on 17 Jun 17
       
      Do you have this happen in your classroom? How do you handle this situation if so?
  • The development of PLEs represents a shift in focus from teacher centered classrooms to more learner centered classrooms.
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I think this is difficult because it shifts not only the center, but the ownership and control. The fear is what might happen if the teacher gives up control or the teacher giving up their pet project or unit that they enjoy. It is hard not to be selfish sometimes when you invest so much of yourself into something.
    • efabscha
      efabscha on 17 Jun 17
       
      I truly wonder what this might look like for teachers. Would there be way more preparation or maybe less preparation is needed? The thought makes me nervous!
    • katieconnolly20
      katieconnolly20 on 17 Jun 17
       
      I agree! I feel that as students take charge of their own learning, it will mean less work for us as teachers. I am also curious of what this looks like. As a kindergarten teacher, I feel that there will need to front load what personalized learning looks like. I will still need to make sure my students are being responsible learners.
    • annabrousard
      annabrousard on 19 Jun 17
       
      In DMPS we are moving to schools for rigor which is all about creating student centered classrooms so I wonder if this will be something that DMPS looks into as well.
    • rmeyer1130
      rmeyer1130 on 28 Jun 17
       
      I feel like it would create MORE work, but in a different way. You have to always be aware of what all of your kids are working on and touch base and provide supports as needed. Less in control of their learning, means you're less in control of what you'll be expected to do each day.
  • begin developing their Symbaloo webmixes
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I see myself having a menu for students to put in their own webmix and then having additions as we go along.
    • efabscha
      efabscha on 17 Jun 17
       
      What types of sources would you require students to put in their menu?
  • &nbsp;I also encourage you to check out the videos and blog posts at SymbalooEDU
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      These are really helpful
  • grounding them intentionally in an environment of information tools and productive applications
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I like the line 'productive applications' - I think this connects back to training our students to be successful in the PLE
  • An eportfolio
    • trgriffin1
      trgriffin1 on 16 Jun 17
       
      I plan to use Google Sites for the portfolio in my course, but I see Symbaloo as their dashboard/launchpad. We will use Moodle, an online textbook, and myriad online resources.
    • efabscha
      efabscha on 17 Jun 17
       
      When students create an eportfolio is this something that can be shared with parents as well? Does it follow them all through school?
  • support learning anywhere
    • eswartzendruber
      eswartzendruber on 17 Jun 17
       
      This is a huge benefit considering one of our biggest goals of teaching is to make students lifelong learners. However, what happens when students don't have access to resources outside of school?
    • annabrousard
      annabrousard on 19 Jun 17
       
      This is a really great idea so that the learning does not stop just because the school day does.
    • rmeyer1130
      rmeyer1130 on 28 Jun 17
       
      Of course, it also makes the gap bigger between children who have support and resources at home, and those students who do not.
  • strategies in place to guide and support these learners
    • eswartzendruber
      eswartzendruber on 17 Jun 17
       
      What are these strategies? As a 4th grade teacher, I have a handful of students who struggle to work independently and trust themselves while taking control of their learning.
    • annabrousard
      annabrousard on 19 Jun 17
       
      I also would like to see some strategies to help with these students.
    • jhenning40
      jhenning40 on 20 Jun 17
       
      I agree some strategies would be helpful. I can anticipate that many students will need some frontloading or strategies in order to be successful with their first PLE.
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      Agreed! I would love some ideas as well.
  • Symbaloo
    • eswartzendruber
      eswartzendruber on 17 Jun 17
       
      As an elementary teacher, I think Symbaloo allows for more management. When meeting with students regarding their PL, we can find/add websites to Symbaloo together especially if they can't edit the "webmix" in their own accounts.
  • photo collages
  • Some instructors empower students to use their own mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones as a means to create PLEs.
  • Symbaloo,
  • tiles
  • It’s easy to use
  • Students can extend their learning into questions to parents, email conversations, Facebook posts or even twitter hashtags.
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      Great ideas for book sharing instead of journaling! This helps in reference to my PLP for this course.
  • set usage parameters
  • so that they can collaborate and discover information
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      LOVE this idea for collaboration and opportunity to teach each other!
  • she explains, are no longer the primary or even the best source of information available to students
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      This is scary and exciting all at once! I can't help but wonder what teachers who have been in the trade for 25+ years must think about this.
  • webmixes
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      I hope I get a better idea of what a "webmix" is as I start the tour of Symbaloo; can't find a definition so I'm guessing it is a term used with this database.
  • select group of individuals (via email).
    • nthurm
      nthurm on 21 Jun 17
       
      This would be good for class sharing that you don't necessarily want others to have access to.
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 05 Jul 17
       
      Great to know!
  • collaborating and sharing with others
    • LaRae Arment
      LaRae Arment on 05 Jul 17
       
      Collaboration is key for students to get the experience of working with others especially if it is a situation that they are not in a regular education classroom environment.
  • heidimeyer on 15 Jun 17
     
    "PLEs place a large amount of responsibility on students and thus requires a high level of self-management and awareness"
anonymous

ol101-2020: Iowa Online Course Standards - 0 views

moodlesw.aealearningonline.org/...view.php

shared by anonymous on 15 Jun 20 - No Cached
  • 2. INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN (NACOL 2)
    • nkrager
      nkrager on 15 Jun 20
       
      The instructional design is so important to start off on the right foot with students! If the course is not set up effectively and clearly, students will lose interest right away if they are confused. Expectations, requirements, privacy, netiquette, integrity, etc all must be addressed early on in a clear manner to provide the structure for a successful course.
  • • Ongoing and frequent assessments are conducted to verify each student’s readiness for the next lesson.
    • mgadient
      mgadient on 15 Jun 20
       
      moodle_iowa I have found this to be helpful to me as I am taking online courses. I think it will help my elementary students feel secure before they move on to the next skill, as it will for me as their teacher. Having a feature for students to make corrections, or add more to their assignments/projects is important in the learning process.
  • The course makes maximum appropriate use of current online tools outside of the LMS (including email, web 2.0, chat, and synchronous/videoconferencing) to enhance learning (iN 4.7, QM 6.1, 6.2, 6.5, ROI 5.a)
    • mgadient
      mgadient on 15 Jun 20
       
      moodle_iowa This is where I will need to do more learning and training with. I utilized email, and I realize the benefits of videoconferencing , so would like to add that to my online component.
    • vonderhaar
      vonderhaar on 19 Jun 20
       
      Yes, I need more training with how to add additional tools to make my online learning more meaningful. I can do some very basic work, but I need to do better. I have found the AEA online tutorial that Evan sent out to be helpful and have it bookmarked to go back to as I continue to learn.
    • pbenezra
      pbenezra on 21 Jun 20
       
      I grade assignments promptly. We have small class sizes so I can always read every assignment and provide feedback.
  • ...26 more annotations...
  • bjectives are measurable
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      Many times objectives are stated in a language that does not lend itself to being easily measured.
  • A variety of high-quality learning resources and materials are available to increase student success (iN 1.5, 2.11, 4.4, QM 4.5, ROI 5.c) • The resources are of sufficient rigor, depth, and breadth to teach the standards being addressed. (QM 4.1) • Instructions on how to access resources at a distance are sufficient and easy to understand.
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      Always the best resources! Vetting should be rigorous
  • Academic integrity and netiquette (Internet etiquette) expectations regarding lesson activities, discussions, e-mail communications and plagiarism are clearly stated (
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      Setting the standards for online communication and activities are very important before a student begins a course. These foundational steps help teachers and students start on a path of learning rather than disciplinary actions and disruptions to learning.
  • The course architecture (CMS) permits the online teacher to add content, activities and assessments to support the learning objectives of the course.
    • mgadient
      mgadient on 15 Jun 20
       
      moodle_iowa This would be extremely important to have in the proposed standard because we are required to align with the Iowa Core. We need to be able to add content, activities and assessments that support those objectives, and accommodate different learning abilities.
  • The course provides opportunities for appropriate student-student interaction to foster mastery and application of the material and a plan for monitoring that interaction.
  • The course instruction includes activities that engage students in active learning.
    • bonnieingersoll
      bonnieingersoll on 17 Jun 20
       
      We use Digits in 6-8 math. It is a online program that has many good features. But some of the homework is multiple-choice questions. Usually there are 4 possible answers and the student has 3 changes to get it correct. So some students just guess until they get it correct or go to "similar question" and again guess until successful. This in not active learning.
  • The course content and assignments are aligned with state’s content standards or nationally accepted content standards (iN 1.2)
    • bonnieingersoll
      bonnieingersoll on 17 Jun 20
       
      It will be even more important this year to consider the district's standards. Our time will be very valuable since we have pre-requisite skills to fill in from last year.
    • vonderhaar
      vonderhaar on 19 Jun 20
       
      Right,everything we do is now wrapped around our teaching standards and reporting out how students are doing with those standards.
  • The course meets universal design principles, Section 508 standards and W3C guidelines to ensure access for all students.
    • pammason
      pammason on 19 Jun 20
       
      All students means just that ALL students and there are many groups that are considered "special" groups in a brick and mortar class.
  • including a self-introduction activity for students and the instructor
    • pammason
      pammason on 19 Jun 20
       
      These introduction activities at the beginning of the class are of high importance as you are not spending face to face time together . Good teachers get to know their students and these introductions are a great starting point.
  • Instruction provides students with multiple learning paths to master the content, addressing individual student needs, learning styles and preferences
    • mrswashburn
      mrswashburn on 19 Jun 20
       
      I think this is an important idea to keep in mind while teaching online. Even though we may be using technology to teach, that technology should be geared toward each learner's specific learning style. This is something I need to work on and keep in mind while teaching online.
  • The course provides opportunities for students to engage in higher-order thinking, critical-reasoning activities and thinking in increasingly complex ways
    • mrswashburn
      mrswashburn on 19 Jun 20
       
      This is an idea that I really like. I enjoy challenging students to reach their goals and beyond. I like that this should be happening in online schools as well.
  • Instructions make clear how to get started and where to find various course components.
    • mrswashburn
      mrswashburn on 19 Jun 20
       
      I think this is a very important idea for both student and adult learners. It is important for teachers to set that foundation with students so they feel comfortable with the online components being used in the class.
    • vonderhaar
      vonderhaar on 19 Jun 20
       
      With online learning being new to so many of our students and parents I agree that we need to have a good foundation for them to easily understand the process and to be comfortable with it.
  • Technologies are chosen that are accessible to students
    • mrswashburn
      mrswashburn on 19 Jun 20
       
      I think this is a very important idea that needs to be addressed before online learning can even happen. Teachers need to make sure that all students have access to the technology being used and the internet. Without these in place, students will not be able to be successful in the online learning environment.
  • The course is organized logically
    • vonderhaar
      vonderhaar on 19 Jun 20
       
      We need to make sure our courses are organized and logical for both students and parents so it is easy for them to understand and so they do not become frustrated.
  • The course provides opportunities for appropriate student interaction with the content to foster mastery and application of the material.
    • pbenezra
      pbenezra on 21 Jun 20
       
      Encouraging highlighting, as well as student summaries in their own words, when students take notes.
  • Regular feedback opportunities, including autonomous feedback such as "self-check" or computer-generated practice assignments, make the student continuously aware of his/her progress in class. (
  • The course provider offers orientation training.
    • ljjohnson
      ljjohnson on 22 Jun 20
       
      This is important so that the online learner has the explanation and experience of how the tools and other parts of the course works. This will help eliminate possible frustration from not understanding how to work with the online program.
  • C. Learner Engagement
    • mstoner31
      mstoner31 on 22 Jun 20
       
      If the students are not engaged, there will be little learning. Appropriate and timely progress monitoring will also encourage learner engagement. A variety of teaching/learning strategies will further encourage learner engagement.
  • 6. LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES • Student information remains confidential, as required by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). (iN 4.11)
    • mstoner31
      mstoner31 on 22 Jun 20
       
      Student information confidentiality is of great concern to ethical educators as well as the parents of these students. Too often, in the past, confidential information was not guarded and those who did not need access to this information were able to access it. This story, although not about curriculum, addresses this point: A substitute teacher was helping with lunch duty and saw students' lunch account balances. At a school board meeting this substitute, who was a liaison community member, commented on how many students were carrying negative lunch balances!
  • incorporated and taught
    • sara_hazel
      sara_hazel on 23 Jun 20
       
      As a technology teacher I am always looking for ways for teacher to incorporate what I am teaching with what they are doing in the classroom and vice versa.
  • All resources and materials used in the course are appropriately cited and obey copyright and fair use. (iN 4.9, QM 4.3)
    • sara_hazel
      sara_hazel on 23 Jun 20
       
      I believe this get looked over and not done correctly.
  • self-directed learning
    • sara_hazel
      sara_hazel on 23 Jun 20
       
      I believe teachers and students need to be educated on what self-directed learning means.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 25 Jun 20
       
      After reading the article about access and equity, it made me realize how easily barriers can be put up that restrict access to certain courses. If you need to purchase a certain app or have to have the premium acct for a certain website to participate, barriers are being set up.
  • accessible to students
  • Technologies are chosen that are accessible to students
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 25 Jun 20
       
      After reading the article about access and equity, it made me realize how easily barriers can be put up that restrict access to certain courses. If you need to purchase a certain app or have to have the premium acct for a certain website to participate, barriers are being set up.
  • Regular feedback opportunities
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 25 Jun 20
       
      Regular feedback I feel can be more difficult in an online course. When you are in the face-to-face you can receive feedback directly to you or from what others are being told so you can judge how you are doing. In online courses you either need to request feedback or wait for the instructor to post something. In the ideal online course there would be an occasional face-to face video meeting to discuss your progress. The time frame of most courses and the amount of students in the class prohibit that practice.
anonymous

ol101-2020: Iowa Online Teaching Standards - 9 views

moodlesw.aealearningonline.org/...view.php

shared by anonymous on 09 Jun 20 - No Cached
    • kshadlow
      kshadlow on 09 Jun 20
       
      I chose this criteria because having your course evaluated gives you valuable information to guide your next attempt. Reading through the student feedback of the course helps to know what you are doing right and what needs to be changed or tweaked to help students be successful.
    • tracyweber34
      tracyweber34 on 09 Jun 20
       
      Student feedback is essential. What do you use to get their feedback? I use either Google Forms or SurveyMonkey.
  • Designs the structure of the course and the presentation of the content to best enhance student learning, including using unit/lesson overviews and reviews, using patterns in lesson sequencing, and using appropriate visual web design techniques
    • kshadlow
      kshadlow on 09 Jun 20
       
      I chose this criteria because it encompasses the purpose for facilitating student learning, the goal. I like how it reminds me of all the components needed to ensure student success.
  • ...61 more annotations...
  • Understands the differences between teaching online and teaching face-to-face
    • mgadient
      mgadient on 15 Jun 20
       
      moodle_iowa After being thrust into online learning in the spring, I learned this is vitally important. I am still learning how to be an online teacher, the preparation it takes, and how essential communication is with the student and his or her family.
    • ravelinga
      ravelinga on 17 Jun 20
       
      I agree, this summer has really opened my eyes to how important it is for a teacher to learn how to teach online. One of the most important parts is having consistent structure and clear expectations at the start.
    • lfinn16
      lfinn16 on 21 Jun 20
       
      This is something that I am learning more about and believe is extremely important. What might work well in the classroom may not work as well online. Finding the best practices for the environment is essential to making sure the students are successful.
    • kshadlow
      kshadlow on 09 Jun 20
       
      I chose this criteria because it seems like a no brainer, but I realized after I started teaching a blended class how many little things are actually big differences between online and F2F courses.
  • Identifies and communicates learning outcomes and expectations through a course overview/orientation (Varvel IV.A, ITS 3.b)
    • tracyweber34
      tracyweber34 on 09 Jun 20
       
      This is important. I can see myself creating a screencastomatic video as an intro to each of my classes in order to meet this criteria.
    • jgeissler
      jgeissler on 12 Jun 20
       
      Moodle_iowa This is a good one. I have always known the "course syllabus" in my head, but especially next year, it would be super helpful to give a course syllabus to families. In the case that we do have to move online for a period of time, families could see where we are going like a roadmap to help their children achieve success.
    • mgadient
      mgadient on 15 Jun 20
       
      moodle_iowa I agree, Jill! It gives families a roadmap, and if we have to suddenly switch modes, it is already in place. It will take some time, but the preloading should help in the long run.
    • ravelinga
      ravelinga on 17 Jun 20
       
      This is something that I need to do a better job with in all my classes. This summer I have been working on updating and improving my class syllabus to be a much better overview of the class and showing what is expected of them throughout the course.
    • conradam4
      conradam4 on 22 Jun 20
       
      I need to be better about posting and discussing learning outcomes before every lesson I teach.
    • Val Rosenthal
      Val Rosenthal on 23 Jun 20
       
      Identifying the objectives can be easy for a teacher to do but the communication piece is more difficult. Students need to see what does that objective mean and what should it look like.
  • Tailors instruction to meet the different needs of students, including different learning styles, different interests and backgrounds, and students with special needs or whom are language learners
    • tracyweber34
      tracyweber34 on 09 Jun 20
       
      This is where teaching online can sometimes be beneficial as long as you provide various ways to learn--videos, text, using text speak, etc.
    • spaulsonsjcs
      spaulsonsjcs on 11 Jun 20
       
      Agreed! This is super important to meet the needs of all of our students!
    • mgadient
      mgadient on 15 Jun 20
       
      moodle_iowa Yes! I think it calls for collaboration with specialist teachers to be sure we are providing the accommodations needed.
    • pbenezra
      pbenezra on 21 Jun 20
       
      Visual graphics and videos for visual and auditory learners. Checking in with and offering office hours and extra support for students who may need this. Accommodations for students with disabilities or other needs.
  • Promotes learning through online collaboration group work that is goal-oriented and focused
    • lfinn16
      lfinn16 on 21 Jun 20
       
      I think this is very important in the classroom and online. When students collaborate they can share knowledge and learn from one another.
    • pbenezra
      pbenezra on 21 Jun 20
       
      Allowing students to do their own PowerPoint presentations of lesson material. Always letting students ask questions which are answered during Zoom meetings.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 25 Jun 20
       
      I feel this is the part that can be missing in online learning. How do you get collaboration and provide a safe environment. As the instructor, do you need to be involved in every interaction between students? Yes when you are dealing with younger students. I am still looking for tools that allow collaboration with adult supervision.
  • 5. Creates and implements a variety of assessments that meet course learning goals and provide data to improve student progress and course instruction (ITS 5)
    • tracyweber34
      tracyweber34 on 09 Jun 20
       
      In order to make an attempt to combat "cheating" in an online course, developing authentic assessments is crucial.
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      Just as in a F2F classroom, a variety of assessments should drive instruction. Assessment is important for both teacher and students.
  • 7. Engages in professional growth (ITS 7)
    • tracyweber34
      tracyweber34 on 09 Jun 20
       
      The OLLIE courses are perfect for this!!!
    • spaulsonsjcs
      spaulsonsjcs on 11 Jun 20
       
      Exactly what I was thinking!
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      I feel that all four of these sub-standards are critical to the professional growth of any teacher who is teaching an online course. Teachers need to stay current with technology, network with peers, and apply learned knowledge and skills to improve best practices.
  • Has experienced online learning from the perspective of a student
    • spaulsonsjcs
      spaulsonsjcs on 11 Jun 20
       
      This is a big one because then you can relate to how the students are feeling. Learning a new LMS can be frustrating and take time, so being able to experience that yourself and then apply that to what the students are feeling can help. I also think taking online courses helps you face many struggles students might have (such as being afraid to ask questions or participate). Again, you are experiencing the struggles students might have, which I feel back benefit the teacher by knowing what these struggles might be beforehand,.
  • Assists students with technology used in the course
    • spaulsonsjcs
      spaulsonsjcs on 11 Jun 20
       
      If we expect our students to use the technology, we need to be able to help them use it! I had one student this past spring who was confused on what I was trying to explain on our LMS. I ended up video taping myself and showing him what to do, and he LOVED it. It was good that I was familiar with the LMS and could then show him myself what to do. If a teacher can't assist the students with the technology they expect them to use, then they shouldn't be using it.
    • ljjohnson
      ljjohnson on 22 Jun 20
       
      During the first week of online learning, I had an instructional Zoom meeting with my students and walked them through the "Instruction to Seesaw Tools" Activity that was going to be assigned. I "shared" my computer screen so that they could see me pointing out, describing, and using each feature on my "Sample Student" account. This was well worth my time because it explained to them how to use the tools and turn in their work on SeeSaw. I also told my students that they could ask me questions in the comments space for each assignment .When they had any questions, I would reply back to them that way and then they could finish up their work.
    • Val Rosenthal
      Val Rosenthal on 23 Jun 20
       
      Many times we assume that students know how to use a computer lesson and how to read the expectations. Helping them to be able to use the programs will increase their success.
  • Understands student motivation and uses techniques to engage students
  • • Maintains an online social presence that is available, approachable, positive, interactive, and sincere
    • spaulsonsjcs
      spaulsonsjcs on 11 Jun 20
       
      This is essential!!!! I wanted my students to still know and feel like I was their teacher and I think it is important for any teacher to do this. Students still need to know we care and want to help them become better learners. I believe keeping in touch with my students daily/weekly was vital in their success this spring.
    • pbenezra
      pbenezra on 21 Jun 20
       
      In our Zoom classrooms I always try to greet each student as they enter, to check in how they are doing and whether or not I can hear them and they can hear me.
    • mstoner31
      mstoner31 on 22 Jun 20
       
      Students need interact with their peers as well as their teachers. Teachers should provide opportunities for students to interact, as is appropriate. Weekly class meetings give the students a chance to see each other and to catch up.. This was very important--especially to our littlest learners during the spring 2020 shut down.
  • Understands student motivation and uses techniques to engage students
    • spaulsonsjcs
      spaulsonsjcs on 11 Jun 20
       
      This stuck out to me because this is something I tried hard to do with my students this spring. I knew that I had to find ways to motivate my students to do the work, and I would reach out to them individually to keep them motivated. I want to make sure I am keeping my students engaged when learning online and I am hoping I will be able to find more ways to do this if we have to continue to teach online this next school year. I think it is essential for motivation and engagement so our students still want to learn.
    • jgeissler
      jgeissler on 11 Jun 20
       
      You are SO RIGHT! In the classroom I can come up with incentives and I have a full toolkit for that....but last spring, I was struggling with online. Looking at the Maslov pyramid maybe the kiddos were stalled at the second step 'safety needs-security'. There was a lot of scary stuff on the news and through some reflections the kids that I didn't think would be bothered were really worried about the world. :( (Also, I can imagine being a middle schooler and being separated from my friends---ewwwwww!!!)
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      I agree Sam. Keeping students motivated and engaged online may be hard. I don't think the being on technology will be hard for us to do, as they love to game and talk to their friends. However, keeping their attention and focus on educational curricular might be a whole other ballgame.
    • vonderhaar
      vonderhaar on 22 Jun 20
       
      I think it also helps to motivate students when they know the "why" in learning. Why is it important for us to know and why are we doing it. I think this is a little harder to get across in online learning. I know I did not do that as we were running a little blind this spring with the Covid situation. I need to improve in my directions to help students be more motivated about the work.
  • • Knows the content of the subject to be taught and understands how to teach the content to students
    • jbuerman
      jbuerman on 12 Jun 20
       
      It is essential that a teacher understands the content and is confident in their ability to teach it. If a teacher is not competent in the subject and hasn't taught it before, it would be difficult to teach an online course. I think one of the best ways to learn as a teacher is to see student's reactions face to face & learn along with them. This would be harder to do in an online setting.
    • dostera5
      dostera5 on 22 Jun 20
       
      It is extremely important for the teacher to understand the content, so they can teach it effectively to their students.
  • Utilizes a course evaluation and student feedback data to improve the course
    • jbuerman
      jbuerman on 12 Jun 20
       
      Teachers should always be willing to improve on their craft. Reflection should be from all stake holder's - parents, students and the teacher themselves. Especially as we do this for the first time - feedback can only make things better.
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      Gathering data and feedback from students and others to improve your course and teaching skills I feel is best practice. Teachers should always want to improve their teaching and want to make their course better. Not every student learns the same way, so what worked the first year may not work the next.
    • lfinn16
      lfinn16 on 21 Jun 20
       
      If teachers don't use a course evaluation or ask for student feedback how do they know what went well or needs improving in the course. All teachers should want every student to succeed. It is important to welcome feedback and be willing to make changes that will improve a course.
    • conradam4
      conradam4 on 22 Jun 20
       
      I need to make it a priority to collect feedback from my students.
  • Selects and uses technologies appropriate to the content that enhance learning
    • jbuerman
      jbuerman on 12 Jun 20
       
      Content can sometimes look fun, but might be challenging for students to do. Their internet might be slow or their computer is not working right or it requires a program that they don't have loaded. These issues make the student focus more on the computer than on the learning at hand.
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      I agree with this standard. I love how it says appropriate to the content to ENHANCE LEARNING. Many times I observe technology use from other teachers as fluff and used just to be used. There is not a purpose or application to the students' learning. It is just in there to pass the time. Technology is a tool, and this tool should engage, foster learning, and encourage application of skills. Not to play a game, watch a video or movie, or just fill time.
    • bhauswirth
      bhauswirth on 16 Jun 20
       
      I think this is a huge standard. I find myself sometimes using technology just to use it. It needs to enhance the learning instead of just there.
    • dostera5
      dostera5 on 22 Jun 20
       
      This standard stick out to me because the technology I choose for my students should be appropriate for their age and the skills/strategies they are learning. I want the technology to be effective and not just being used to use it.
  • Incorporates social aspects into the teaching and learning process, creating a community of learners
    • jbuerman
      jbuerman on 12 Jun 20
       
      Students are very social learners. Many of us have collaborative activities that they do in a face to face setting. It is important that we keep these social activities in an online course as well. Learning is definitely more fun with others!
    • Val Rosenthal
      Val Rosenthal on 23 Jun 20
       
      I have never really thought about this as being a standard in an online class. After taking a couple of classes myself, I can see the benefits of creating a community of learners and bringing in the social aspects for my online learners.
  • Selects and understands how to evaluate learning materials and resources that align with the context and enhance learning
    • teacherin12
      teacherin12 on 14 Jun 20
       
      "moodle_iowa" Learning to evaluate material is important because the internet has multiple sites with different information. My class researches saints every year and I have specific websites I ask them to research with because not all the sites are accurate. I have had to complete my own research in order to lead them to more accurate sites.
  • Has knowledge of and informs student of their rights to privacy and the conditions under which their work may be shared with others
    • teacherin12
      teacherin12 on 14 Jun 20
       
      "moodle_iowa" Teaching students about being safe online and making certain they understand their own rights as well as the rights of others is extremely necessary. In our society, we have the rules of the road to follow and explicit classes for students learning how to drive. This standard jumped out to me because I feel there are not a lot of parents ensuring their child is safe online.
  • Provides opportunities that enable student self-assessment and pre-assessment within courses
    • teacherin12
      teacherin12 on 14 Jun 20
       
      "moodle_iowa" At our school we are teaching the students about Growth Mindset and using self-assessment is key. Students understanding what they are failing at and learning how to fix it is a part of moving forward in their education. Using pre-assessments allows students to move above and beyond their strengths and to work on their not as strong areas with more practice.
    • conradam4
      conradam4 on 22 Jun 20
       
      I like the idea of allowing students to self-assess as well. This gives them to really reflect and be more active in their learning.
  • Sets and models clear expectations for appropriate behavior and proper interaction (
    • teacherin12
      teacherin12 on 14 Jun 20
       
      "moodle_iowa" Being able to explain your expectations is important because it sets the tone for the entire class to be more successful. Whenever we were talking online I reviewed expectations to have better conversations that were helpful and inspired others.
  • Is knowledgeable and has the ability to use computer programs required in online education to improve learning and teaching, including course management software (CMS) and synchronous/asynchronous communication tools (chat, email, web 2.0, videoconferencing, webinar, whiteboard, etc.) (SREB B.3, Varvel III.B)
    • nkrager
      nkrager on 15 Jun 20
       
      Teachers must be able to set up a course online successfully using the necessary tools. It seems that some think you can just a F2F class and put it online. There is a lot of prep work that goes into doing this successfully and knowing what resources/tools are out there is vital for success.
    • bonnieingersoll
      bonnieingersoll on 17 Jun 20
       
      Definitely. I am feeling more and more unprepared as I learn what is needed to make online course work and all the resources available.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 19 Jun 20
       
      If you have ever had a face-to-face course or online course that the instructor was struggling to show, share or run something you know that impacts the effectiveness of the learning. I have had that experience and tend to focus on the problems instead of the content. I understand that technology doesn't always work but not knowing how to use it can be very distracting.
    • pumphreyk
      pumphreyk on 19 Jun 20
       
      It is so important to be knowledgeable and have the ability to use computer programs required in online learning! This is exactly why I am taking this course! I need to be more knowledgeable.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 25 Jun 20
       
      If you have ever had a face-to-face course or online course that the instructor was struggling to show, share or run something you know that impacts the effectiveness of the learning. I have had that experience and tend to focus on the problems instead of the content. I understand that technology doesn't always work but not knowing how to use it can be very distracting. on 2020-06-19
  • Aligns assessment with course objectives (SREB I.3, Varvel VI.C, ITS 5.a
    • nkrager
      nkrager on 15 Jun 20
       
      Hopefully this takes on the same importance as it does in a F2F classroom. Our assessments should align with the content we are teaching and finding ways to best assess this is critical.
  • Communicates with students effectively and consistently (SREB D.1, ITS 1.g)
    • nkrager
      nkrager on 15 Jun 20
       
      This is so important in the online world. We want our students to know that we are "with them" and paying attention to them, just as we would be in a F2F class. This can actually be more time consuming as we may need to address each student individually to motivate, prompt, encourage, guide, etc and it will take longer than it would in a F2F setting. Feedback is so important in all settings!
  • Provides and communicates evidence of learning and course data to students and colleagues (SREB J.6, ITS 1.a)
    • dsunderman
      dsunderman on 15 Jun 20
       
      It is very important for students to see evidence of learning. This evidence of learning can be a real motivator for some students.
  • Demonstrates effective instructional strategies and techniques, appropriate for online education, that align with course objectives and assessment (SREB C.1, SREB G.6, Varvel V.C, ITS 3.d, ITS 4.b)
    • dsunderman
      dsunderman on 15 Jun 20
       
      Learning happens when effective instructional strategies and techniques are used. Effective instructional strategies and techniques for online learning are a whole new skill set for most of us.
    • conradam4
      conradam4 on 22 Jun 20
       
      I need to be better about posting and discussing learning outcomes for every lesson I teach.
  • Provides substantive, timely, and constructive feedback to students (SREB D.8, Varvel VI.F, ITS 5.e)
    • dsunderman
      dsunderman on 15 Jun 20
       
      Providing timely and constructive feedback can help student become stronger learners.
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      Timely feedback is very important. I remember as a child I would ask when the test was being passed back, just so I know how I did on the test. I still have students asking me when I will grade something or have a comment back to them by. I always tell my students I am available 24/7 via email for their programming needs, but sometimes they just want a quick check on their work. It is that constructive feedback that I feel needs to be precise and to the point, so they understand what you are asking of them and what they need to do to get the grade they are searching for.
    • dostera5
      dostera5 on 22 Jun 20
       
      Providing feedback is so important for the student. It is even more important that the feedback is given in a timely manner. This is one way to build a rapport with the student, and make sure they are understanding the content being taught.
  • Demonstrates techniques for dealing with issues arising from inappropriate student technological use (SREB E.7)
    • dsunderman
      dsunderman on 15 Jun 20
       
      This is very important and could be very difficult when learning is strictly online. I know filters can be put on devices but am not sure how that works.
  • Continuously uses data to evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of instructional strategies (SREB J.7, ITS 1.c)
    • mdaniels44
      mdaniels44 on 15 Jun 20
       
      This is something I need to improve on
    • bhauswirth
      bhauswirth on 16 Jun 20
       
      This is something that assessments, quick checks and tickets out the door will allow us to check what the students know and what I need to do to make sure they will understand later.
    • ravelinga
      ravelinga on 17 Jun 20
       
      This is an effective strategy for any teaching style. Sometimes when students are not understanding the content, the teacher needs to look back at how the content was taught and make a change. Also, if an instructional strategy is not effective there should be reteaching as well.
    • lfinn16
      lfinn16 on 21 Jun 20
       
      This is essential to online and classroom instruction. It is always important to use data to drive instruction. By looking at data one can see if the students are understanding what is being taught.
  • Creates and implements a variety of assessments that meet course learning goals and provide data to improve student progress and course instruction
    • mdaniels44
      mdaniels44 on 15 Jun 20
       
      I think this is important and something I do
  • Engages in professional growth
    • mdaniels44
      mdaniels44 on 15 Jun 20
       
      I think a teacher should always want to learn and become better.
    • bhauswirth
      bhauswirth on 24 Jun 20
       
      This is what I've been saying all along. Teachers need to continue to learn in order to continue to provide the best practices for students
  • Knows and aligns instruction to the achievement goals of the local agency and the state, such as with the Iowa Core
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      This is important because without the alignment we will end up with arrows pointing in random directions instead of one common goal.
    • bonnieingersoll
      bonnieingersoll on 17 Jun 20
       
      It will be even more important this year to consider the district's standards. Our time will be very valuable since we have gaps to fill in from last year.
    • pumphreyk
      pumphreyk on 19 Jun 20
       
      This is very true. We will probably need to look at previous grade's standards as well as our own since our students missed a third of the academic school year.
    • ljjohnson
      ljjohnson on 21 Jun 20
       
      This is especially relevant due to the online learning that needed to be done this past spring. The teachers at our school will need to meet and discuss what standards were not met for each of our classes and make adjustments.
  • Creates a learning community that encourages collaboration and interaction, including student-teacher, student-student, and student-content
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      Learning is social. Collaboration and interaction help examine own understanding including misconceptions and deepen the knowledge and skill.
  • Has knowledge of learning theory
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      Theory is the basis of all the practical decisions that we make. Without a thorough understanding of the theory behind online learning, it would be easy to go astray. (True for everything else!)
  • safe environment
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      Maslow's hierarchy!
  • Demonstrates competence in content knowledge (including technological knowledge) appropriate to the instructional position (ITS 2)
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      As a computer science teacher and technology coordinator, I feel that it is important to know the content that you are teaching before you try to teach it to the students. Which also may mean you need to be certified to teach that content area, or have some background with the curriculum (as in Iowa you do not have to have a Computer Science degree to teach computer science, yet) However the most important asset of this standard is the assistance we should provide to students.
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      As a computer science teacher and technology coordinator, I feel that it is important to know the content that you are teaching before you try to teach it to the students. Which also may mean you need to be certified to teach that content area, or have some background with the curriculum (as in Iowa you do not have to have a Computer Science degree to teach computer science, yet) However the most important asset of this standard is the assistance we should provide to students.
  • Has experienced online learning from the perspective of a student
    • Dee Hamlett
      Dee Hamlett on 15 Jun 20
       
      I feel that all four of these sub-standards are critical to the professional growth of any teacher who is teaching an online course. Teachers need to stay current with technology, network with peers, and apply learned knowledge and skills to improve best practices.
    • ravelinga
      ravelinga on 17 Jun 20
       
      I agree, one the best learning experiences for me was taking these classes and being a student again and seeing instructional strategies for a student's perspective. Going into next year, I have already implemented changes to my classes because of my experience as a learner and a student.
    • pbenezra
      pbenezra on 21 Jun 20
       
      This is what we are doing on this course. I also get this experience somewhat when I am in an online Professional development meeting at my school.
    • joanmusich
      joanmusich on 24 Jun 20
       
      It is very important the a teacher has went through an online class (or 4) so they have a good idea of how it works, what a student goes through, where hang-ups occur, and just to know, it is easy to get stuck.
  • Communicates assessment criteria and standards to students, including rubrics for student performances and participation
    • mgadient
      mgadient on 15 Jun 20
       
      moodle_iowa This is definitely an area that we use in face-to-face teaching, so I would expect that it would be included and important to online teaching. It is good for students, and teachers, to know the expectations that are needed for an assignment, assessment or project. It is a guideline to follow until you reach the desired product or learning objective.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 19 Jun 20
       
      Communication within online courses is more difficult. It can be difficult to share in detail the expectations and answer many questions as you can in a face-to-face classroom. Clearly stating assessment criteria and providing some kind of framework. like a rubric, is important to a successful learning experience.
  • Applies research, knowledge, and skills from professional growth to improve practice
    • olga1203
      olga1203 on 15 Jun 20
       
      It is equally important whether we are teaching F2F or online. A teacher is a lead learner. We set the example, we learn, we reflect, we improve our practice. The key here is to incorporate the new learning. We simply cannot afford to attend PD sessions and never put new learning into practice. That would be malpractice!
  • Demonstrates competence in planning, designing, and incorporating instructional strategies
    • bhauswirth
      bhauswirth on 16 Jun 20
       
      I believe teachers are lifelong learners. This standard is something that teachers will continue to do when their online/blended courses develop.
  • Understands and uses data from assessments to guide instruction
    • bhauswirth
      bhauswirth on 16 Jun 20
       
      I stated this above that data from formative assessments need to drive instruction. Then you adjust to enhance student learning.
  • Demonstrates growth in technology knowledge and skills in order to stay current with emerging technologies
    • pammason
      pammason on 19 Jun 20
       
      This should be a given with online teaching and is exactly why I am taking this class, to grow my tech skills and knowledge. This field changes so quickly , one must always be growing and adding skills to stay effective.
  • Understands and uses instructional pedagogy that is appropriate for the online environment and meets the multiple learning needs of students
    • pammason
      pammason on 19 Jun 20
       
      This is interesting because in our brick and mortar classrooms we can often have other teachers that work with some of our students due to special education needs, physical needs, or language needs, but in an online classroom you are the only teacher. Makes me wonder if online teachers ever have these types of people as resources.
  • Networks with others involved in online education for the purpose of professional growth
    • pumphreyk
      pumphreyk on 19 Jun 20
       
      I know that networking with others involved in online education is vital for me because I am so new to online learning.
  • Establishes standards for student behavior that are designed to ensure academic integrity and appropriate use of the internet and written communication
  • Creates or selects multiple assessment instruments that are appropriate for online learning (SREB H.1, Varvel VI.C)
    • ljjohnson
      ljjohnson on 22 Jun 20
       
      This is important because some students perform better through different ways. For example, I would have some assignments that required oral or typed answers, some required drawings, and some required the students to take a picture of an item that represented the lesson we were learning. Depending on the assignment, the students could pick the way they wanted to use for their answers.
  • Continuously uses data to evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of instructional strategies (SREB J.7, ITS 1.c)
    • dostera5
      dostera5 on 22 Jun 20
       
      It is important for a teacher to use data to drive their instruction. This way the teacher can pin point where the student needs help.
  • Understands and uses course content that complies with intellectual property rights and fair use, and assists students in complying as well
    • mstoner31
      mstoner31 on 22 Jun 20
       
      This hits me where I live. It is so important to not just "talk the talk" about photocopying music but to actually share with the students my understanding of copyright laws concerning music photocopying. Thankfully I have purchased a program that I can use in the classroom and can copy as needed.
  • Meets the professional teaching standards established by a state-licensing agency, or has the academic credentials in the field in which he or she is teaching
    • mstoner31
      mstoner31 on 22 Jun 20
       
      It is important for educators to meet the standards set forth by the state to protect the students, ensure their education and prepare the students for their future. As education and society evolve, educators will be required to demonstrate their mastery of technology as well as their specific field of study.
  • Continuously uses data to evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of instructional strategies (SREB J.7, ITS 1.c)
    • conradam4
      conradam4 on 22 Jun 20
       
      I'm a data girl. Love seeing the data on new instructional practices and love using data to inform future instruction.
  • • Knows the content of the subject to be taught and understands how to teach the content to students
    • mstoner31
      mstoner31 on 22 Jun 20
       
      The state has adopted requirements for teachers to protect our students, to provide the best trained professionals for our schools and to insure appropriately licensed teachers are leading classrooms. When I was first in Iowa, it was quite a battle to obtain my endorsements. Reciprocity between Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska didn't exist and my administrator went to the wall for my licensure.
  • Selects and uses technologies appropriate to the content that enhance learning
    • Val Rosenthal
      Val Rosenthal on 23 Jun 20
       
      This has been a challenge for me. I feel like I'm always looking for the best technologies to enhance my content but they change so fast that it is difficult to be committed to one. I continue to read blogs and other math posts to learn more about math technologies.
  • Demonstrates techniques for dealing with issues arising from inappropriate student technological use (SREB E.7)
    • sara_hazel
      sara_hazel on 23 Jun 20
       
      We have had to address students that have been using technology inappropriately and each case is dealt with on an individual basis. It is very important to have policies and procedures in place to ensure students learn from their misuse and don't do it again.
  • Demonstrates ethical conduct as defined by state law and local policies or procedures
    • sara_hazel
      sara_hazel on 23 Jun 20
       
      When I read this one it make me think of the online learning this spring and the video conferencing that was taking place. We were reminded to dress appropriately, not to conduct conference in private rooms in our house, and not to have a one on one video conferences with a student. It was important to demonstrate ethical conduct.
  • , managing conflict (Varvel VII.D, ITS 6.e)
    • bhauswirth
      bhauswirth on 24 Jun 20
       
      Throughout the courses I thought this was something that only face to face courses need to provide, but that is not true. It's crazy how much being personable and providing that safe environment on and offline.
  • Selects and uses technologies appropriate to the content that enhance learning
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      This is a concern because it takes quite a bit of time to research and implement different types of technology. Is this just an expectation? Should school districts provide more training/instruction on the various types of technologies?
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      This is a concern because it takes quite a bit of time to research and implement different types of technology. Is this just an expectation? Should school districts provide more training/instruction on the various types of technologies?
  • Networks with others involved in online education for the purpose of professional growth (
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      This is an interesting standard...when should this occur? Who organizes this type of networking for professional growth?
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      This is an interesting standard...when should this occur? Who organizes this type of networking for professional growth?
  • Creates or selects multiple assessment instruments that are appropriate for online learning
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      Is there a list of resources/instruments for formative and summative assessments available? How many types should be used in a class? Are there some assessments that are better suited for high school students in the online environment?
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      Is there a list of resources/instruments for formative and summative assessments available? How many types should be used in a class? Are there some assessments that are better suited for high school students in the online environment?
  • Demonstrates techniques for dealing with issues arising from inappropriate student technological use (
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      The online instructor is expected to demonstrate techniques to deal with inappropriate use of technology by students. Is it the teacher's responsibility to find the techniques or software and discourage inappropriate use? Or, does the technology department in a school district find the techniques and the teachers use them?
    • bushb13
      bushb13 on 24 Jun 20
       
      The online instructor is expected to demonstrate techniques to deal with inappropriate use of technology by students. Is it the teacher's responsibility to find the techniques or software and discourage inappropriate use? Or, does the technology department in a school district find the techniques and the teachers use them?
  • Establishes standards for student behavior that are designed to ensure academic integrity and appropriate use of the internet and written communication
    • joanmusich
      joanmusich on 24 Jun 20
       
      Standards set up ahead of time are very important. This gives students upfront knowledge of what is expected.
  • knowledgeable and has the ability to use computer programs
  • to use computer programs required in online education
apeich

ollie1 (Peterman): Iowa Online Course Standards - 2 views

moodlesw.aeapdonline.org/...view.php

shared by apeich on 18 Jan 13 - No Cached
  • Proposed Online Course Standards
    • Steven Sand
      Steven Sand on 16 May 14
       
      Out of curioustiy, will these proposed standards change in the coming years with Iowa Core?
  • The course content and activities are of sufficient rigor, depth, and breadth to teach the standards being addressed (iN 1.3, QM 5.1, ROI 3.c)
    • patesl
      patesl on 16 May 14
       
      I'm feeling that this class is very rigorous, tons of digging to do to learn the content. However, that opinion may be based on the fact I'm learning the vocabulary needed to comprehend assignments, etc. I'm relating to our ESL students, they face my frustration all the time when trying to interact with academic content without the understanding of vocabulary needed to fully learn the content.
  • (CP) • Course provider uses multiple ways of assessing course effectiveness.
    • patesl
      patesl on 16 May 14
       
      I'm glad to see that multiple assessments are used. If too much is placed on one major assessment there are bound to be those who can not show what they really know.
  • ...2 more annotations...
  • (K-12) • 21st century skills, including information literacy and communication skills, are incorporated and taught as an integral part of the curriculum. (iN 1.4)
    • apeich
      apeich on 19 May 14
       
      I talk about 21st century skills and information literacy with public librarians a lot, and try to emphasize how important they are to education and that libraries should play more of a role supporting them. Now I have a specific standard to refer to. It's always nice to have something official to refer to.
  • • The course provides opportunities for appropriate student interaction with the content to foster mastery and application of the material. (ROI 3.a)
    • apeich
      apeich on 19 May 14
       
      This is where I struggle with designing online learning. I don't know enough about tools to create good interaction between the students and content. An additional hurdle for me is that I'm working with adult learners, many of whom are not comfortable with technology. So in addition to providing as much interactivity as possible, I need tools that are relatively easy to understand and use.
Peggy Steinbronn

Center for Teaching - 1 views

cft.vanderbilt.edu/...team-based-learning

shared by Peggy Steinbronn on 06 May 16 - No Cached
  • Peggy Steinbronn on 06 May 16
     
    Team-based learning. By Cynthia J. Brame, CFT Assistant Director What is it? Team-based learning (TBL) is a structured form of small-group learning that emphasizes student preparation out of class and application of knowledge in class. Students are organized strategically into diverse teams of 5-7 students that work together throughout the class.
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