There were many resources I found helpful, especially the video by Rick Wormeli. But One of the articles from the resources I really liked was "Know Students Better: A Visual Guide to Formative Assessment Tools" by Tony Vincent. It's just so practical because it lists (in a visual way) the top online formative assessment tools as well as provides a brief description with the added bonus of a succinct review. I also like the provided links for formative question ideas. So helpful! It isn't a flashy article and it isn't ladened with educational pedagogy. It's just a down and dirty practical compilation of formative assessment tools. I referenced this article numerous times throughout the course.
I also really appreciated the discussion time we devoted to Genius Hour or Passion Projects. It was great to hear the different ways teachers were utilizing this time. Although I have never used a Genius Hour, there are teachers in my building that do and the kids love it. I am very impressed with their completed projects and ideas. I don't think I'm in favor of letting students pursue a topic or interest that doesn't align with curricular goals. I do like the idea of a PP or GH being driven by a "burning question," but that question should tie to the umbrella questions or essential questions of the course. For instance, if the umbrella concept is how civilizations survive, thrive or fail, students should have to pursue an idea that ties to that concept. Some of the questions that were listed as example GH ideas seemed like a simple Google search could answer them. I think a good GH project should have a burning question with depth, substance and maybe even a little mystery. The search and development should be as satisfying as the final result.
Because I am so intrigued with the GH or PP concept, I will definitely continue my learning by trying to implement this in my class. Since I teach instructional kiddos, it would need to be stripped down and simplified, but I think the kids would love it. I would also like to dabble with personalized learning and maybe even incorporate badges. What's so great about personalized learning and learning paths is that they can be individualized based on the needs of the students. Kids can also work at their own pace, which is so helpful when trying to reach all of the students.
Wow! I can't believe I just completed my reflection for the last class of the cohort. It's astounding how much I've learned and how far I've come. Here's to an educational future chock full of technology...cheers!
Erika,
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you about Genius Hour and really enjoyed our class discussion about it. I would have LOVED this idea back when I was in school and to be honest, think I might instill it in my own personal life. I think setting an hour of time, that is uninterrupted (kids in bed), to research or learn about something that you are really passionate about, could be very fulfilling. It's nice to be off in the summer and have extra time to do these things but I think once the school year starts, this idea would be super beneficial. And cheers to completing all 5 classes!!
Erika,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with your comments about Genius Hour, I too feel that my students will love it, but it does need to be "stripped down and simplified" for my kindergarten students as well. I'd love to see what their questions are and what they'd like to research about! Hooray for finishing our classes!
Erika-I also enjoyed our time with Genius Hour. I have always wondered how exactly it worked and I think spending time doing it in class was much more meaningful then us just hearing a lesson on it or watching a "How To" video. I was really impressed with the spreadsheet that another teacher developed with all of the Essential Questions his students have worked on. This was a great way to see how students think and the areas that some students are interested in. I am hoping I can figure out a way to include Genius Hour in my class this coming school year. Have a great rest of your summer!
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