Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Aspects of Coaching


“Coaching is the art of creating an environment, through conversation and a way of being, that facilitates the process by which a person can move toward desired goals in a fulfilling manner. Tim Gallwey (2000, p. 177)”. Galley understands that coaching is an art and it has to be cultivated. When I think about the aspects of coaching, I think about the following:
1.      Building Positive Professional Relationships
2.      Understanding Coaching Systems
3.      Differentiating Coaching

Building a positive professional relationship built on trust and clear expectations is extremely important. According to Marzano & Simms 2013, “a coach can build trust in many ways, such as spending time together, active listening, and personal stories”, (pg. 218).  A coach should know his/her job description and share it with teachers. This will enable teachers to understand the coach's work descriptions and expectations. Spending time with teachers where conversations are had to get to know each other provides quality bonding time for teachers and coaches. During the conversation, coaches should practice active listening that builds trust as well as share personal stories. Jones 2018 believes, “Making personal connections is a great first step to developing a positive professional relationship.” In this video, view instructional coach, Joshua Parker, build a relationship with a teacher, Marquis Colquitt.

Understanding the different coaching systems, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, will enable a coach to be proactive in his/her approach.

·         Teacher- initiated- coaching-Teacher asks for a coach.
·         Administrator-initiated coaching- the administrator requires a teacher to work with a coach.
·         District-initiated- coaching- A district requires a specific group of educators to work with a coach.
·         School- districtwide coaching- Every teacher in the district/school is required to work with a coach. (Marzano & Simms 2013, Pg. 211)
A coaching system where the teacher initiates the coach can be one that is positive because the teacher is a willing participant. On the other hand, the administrator- initiated -coaching system lends to teachers not trusting their coach because they feel as though he/she is there as an “I gotcha” coach. Because of district-initiated-coaching allows administrators to select coaches for teachers, this system can have the same negative effect as the teacher-initiated -coaching system. Lastly, the schoolwide/districtwide coaching system enables all teachers within the district/school to have access to a coach. This levels the playing field and no one person feels singled out.

Regardless of the coaching system used, a coach must understand the importance of differentiating coaching. Differentiation can take place through the different types of coaching conversations, understanding a teacher’s level of experience, and their readiness to make a change. As an instructional coach, I set the tone of the relationship by building a professional relationship built on trust and expectations. Moreover, I meet the needs of my teachers through differentiated coaching. For example, one teacher may struggle with providing his/her students with a standard aligned morning routine. Because of the lack of structure, students are off task and disruptive. In a second classroom, a teacher has a standard aligned morning routine; however, he/she does most of the work versus facilitating student learning. 

Both teachers are in need of support at different levels. According to Eller, “Instructional coaching is a unique form of professional development that provides individual assistance to teachers in refining and improving their instructional practices. It is the perfect vehicle for differentiation based on the needs of each teacher.


References
Eller, J. & Eller, S. (2018). Differentiated instructional coaching: for maximum effectiveness, tailor instruction to teachers’ needs
Jones, L. (2018). Tch tips: Make the most out of your coaching experience. Retrieved from https://www.teachingchannel.org/tch/blog/tch-tips-make-most-out-your-coaching-experience.
Marzano, R.J. & Simms, J.A. (2013). Coaching classroom instruction. Marzano Research Laboratory: Bloomington, IN.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Coaches: We Need Them


According to Sir John Whitmore, “Coaching is unlocking people’s potential to maximize their own performance”. This quote resonates with me because it is relevant in so many different situations. The Marzano Focused Teacher Evaluation Model is designed to allow administrators to discriminate between levels of teacher performance fairly and objectively (Marzano, 2017, pg.5).The four components of the model are: standards- based planning, standards-based instruction, conditions for learning, and professional responsibility, with each housing at least 10 elements. Because of this evaluative tool that administrators use with educators, coaches are greatly needed.
Coaches provide support for teachers as they “progress through the five levels of the scale: Not Using (0), Beginning (1), Developing (2), Applying (3), and Innovating (4)” (Marzano & Simms, 2013, pg. 35).  As I reflect on the reading, I think about the coaching that takes place in my school. As the lead teacher mentor, I spend a lot of time with new teachers and the number one concern has been classroom management. New teachers come into the classroom with textbook knowledge and they lack the on the job training; therefore, the first thing I notice while inside their classrooms is the lack of classroom norms as well as processes and procedures. As I debrief with teachers, they immediately talk about the things they noticed and they complete the self- audit. As a result, they set their goal. I then provide them with what the research says about establishing and maintaining classroom rules and procedures. Since this element was not evident within their class, they received a (0) for not using. Action steps are given to the teacher, so they can move from Not Using (0) to Beginning (1). As Marzano & Simms (2013) state, “Once a teacher understands the research and theory for an element, the coach provides him with a list of strategies for the element” (pg. 37).
It is the coaches charge to continue to develop teachers; therefore, monitoring teachers as they perform the strategies and providing constructive feedback enables teachers to adjust what they are not doing. Once they are performing the strategies correctly, they move from Beginning (1) to Developing (2). As the teacher(s) and the coach begin to focus on students’ responses to the strategy and the teacher adjusts obtain the desired results, the teacher now moves from Developing (2) to Applying (3). In order to move from Applying (3) to Innovating (4), a teacher must have mastered several strategies for a given element. When I witness a class where the students are holding each other accountable for their actions, applying problem-solving strategies, and creating an environment that is conducive to learning, I have evidence that the teacher has progressed from Not Using (0) to Innovating (4).
This process works with technology coaches as well. Technology coaches who work with educators collaboratively during PLC, using the Technology Integration Planning Cycle (TIPC) can coach teachers on how to select the proper device and/or tool based on the learning targets for the lesson.  As technology coaches continue to work with teachers, teachers will progress in their ability to effectively integrate technology, which will have a positive impact on students’ ability to properly utilize technology for their learning needs. “Just like with teaching, integration specialists need to differentiate instruction and support to meet the needs of the teachers. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. It is a collaborative cycle of support that should consist of setting goals with the teacher, co-planning lessons, observing the teacher in action and then debriefing after the lesson” (Joseph & Fisher, 2018).




References
Joseph, M. & Fisher, E. (2018). The 6 fundamentals of technology: Coaching educators must be properly trained before integrating a new device or software into their classrooms. Retrieved from https://edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2018/06/6-fundamentals-technology-coaching.
Marzano, R.J. & Simms, J.A. (2013). Coaching classroom instruction. Marzano Research Laboratory: Bloomington, IN.
[Edutopia] [2015, June 24]. Instructional Coaching: Driving Meaningful Tech Integration [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l5JBUacW1w.

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

Coaching: "The Process"



Anyone who really knows me knows that I am an Alabama fan and I love college football. Being a fan of Alabama football, it is natural for me to admire Coach Nick Saban. My admiration for him comes as a result of what he has done as the head football coach at The University of Alabama. Not only has he produced successful players, he has mentored other coaches who have since moved on and received head coaching positions. I mention Nick Saban because of “The Process” that he follows as a coach and the buy-in he gets from his players. In education, coaching is a process and it requires buy-in.
According to Marzano and Simms (2012), “With a complex endeavor such as teaching, it is extremely difficult to reach and then maintain the highest levels of performance without help. The most effective help commonly comes in the form of coaching” (pg. 3). As previously stated, coaching is a process that requires buy-in. As an instructional coach, I understand the importance of buy-in. Teachers want to know that you care, and you are present to assist them in becoming the best. Coaching supports teachers to improve their capacity to reflect and apply their learning to their work with students and in their work with each other (Aguilar, 2016).
My reason for becoming an instructional coach was/is to have the ability to positively reach more students through coaching teachers. There is not a lot of research regarding coaching and the impact it has on student achievement; however, there is research pertaining to coaching and the impact it has on teachers. Joyce and Showers (2002) found that coaching helped teachers transfer their training to the classroom (Marzano & Simms, 2012, pg. 5). Additionally, Aguilar states in her blog that “Coaching is an embedded support that attempts to respond to student and teacher needs in ongoing, consistent, dedicated ways. The likelihood of using new learning and sharing responsibility rises when colleagues, guided by a coach, work together and hold each other accountable for improved teaching and learning.”
So, when we think about coaching and the research regarding the effect it has on teaching and learning, we cannot ignore “The Process”. For effective coaching to take place, it must be properly implemented. Implementation begins with building a relationship grounded in trust.  Secondly, is to provide teachers with timely feedback that is nonevaluative. Lastly, providing the opportunity for teachers to choose what they work on. Coaching enables others to see things in themselves that they once could not see. As you watch the video below, think about “The Process” and what this coach does to motivate all players. Is this not what coaches do in schools every day? They are in the trenches (they understand), they push teachers, while letting them know that they understand their frustration, but they are going to keep moving.Watch the video two or three times, so you can notice something different each time.



                                                            References

Aguilar, E. (2016). The Art of Coaching Teams: Building Resilient Communities that Transform Schools. Jossey-Bass: San Francisco, CA.
 Marzano, R.J. & Simms, J.A. (2012). Coaching classroom instruction. Marzano Research Laboratory: Bloomington, IN.
[Workout Naturally]. [2011, July 15 ]. Motivational Coach Teaches How to Overcome Our Limits! [Video File]. Retrieved from https
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaEgT0hVuS0


Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Instructional Design: Summation



Good instructional design covers all stages of the ADDIE model, answering the critical questions of Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. As these critical questions are answered, the instructional designer identifies the overall goal, learner needs and additional learner information, as well as the targeted objectives. According to Ritzhaupt et al. (2017), “Beyond the general characteristics of learners, designers should know what prerequisite skills the learner should already have before attempting the course. Along with pre-requisite skills is a need to understand learners with disabilities.  While a knowledge of the population of the learners’ academic levels is important, the why behind their academic levels is equally important.”
Instructional designers who provide instruction that covers the different learning styles reach more of their learners; this is a student-centered approach. Admin (2019) states the golden principles of high- quality instructional design are as follows:
1.      It must begin with an end in mind.
2.      It must be student-centered.
3.      It is redefined through continuous assessment and improvement.
4.      It follows a well-defined system.
5.      It considers the big picture.
These principles align with the ADDIE model in that each principle is found within ADDIE. Principles 1-4 are easy to incorporate in Addie; however, principle number 5 may be a little difficult for some to interpret. When I really look at principle 5, I see the big picture as getting everyone involved to make things happen. This simply means getting all stakeholders involved in the process to exercise their talents and abilities. Ritzhaupt et al. (2017) states, “determining who the stakeholders are is an important part of the analysis process as well as the overall ADDIE process as these are the people who inform the process and will have some determination in the success or failure of the process due to their experience and knowledge.  Preferably the known stakeholders should convene to determine who else should be involved.”
As I read through the material for this course as well as researched material regarding instructional design, I worked hard to make sure I progressed through the stages of the ADDIE model while designing my pd session. My professional development session is designed to change mindsets in our building to establish clear expectations for all that will assist with the positive development of our climate and culture. My session consists of relationship building activities and reaffirming our purpose, which includes understanding why we do what we do, grounded in our school’s mission and vision. Additionally, my session requires the faculty and staff to work collaboratively to create our school’s flow of the day protocols for students, faculty, and staff.
My delivery method embraces all learning styles. For example, I have a Google Slide Presentation that includes words in print, images, and video clips. The learners within my session will move around to work on team building activities, be responsible for presenting information to the group (Jig Saw activity), as well as participant in a Socratic seminar where they get to further provide information that will help them to understand the importance of setting clear school-wide expectations for all. These expectations/protocols will be created using Google Docs, which will allow teams to work together outside of our work session for the day. I started including Google Docs two years ago at my school, so I feel confident about the faculty and staff’s ability to use it. Because I am the Lead Mentor at my school, I have been in communication with our new teachers, so I know they have worked with and feel comfortable with Google Docs.
I am extremely excited about my pd session and tracking the effects through classroom walk throughs, surveys, and one-on-one conversations.
Click here for PD Information


References
Admin. (2019). The golden principles of high-quality instructional design. Retrieved from https://www.shiftelearning.com/blog/bid/344888/the-golden-rules-of-high-quality-instructional-design.
[Anna Sabramowicz]. [2014, Nov. 10]. Role of the Instructional Designer. [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZI0r9hwDc6Q.

Rithzaupt, A., Lee, B., Eichler., Calhoun, C., Salama, C., Nichols, J., Wilson, M., Hafizah, N., Davis, A., Beatty, O., Yaylaci, S., Sahau, S. & Wildberger, W. (2017, December 12). ADDIE Explained [text]. Retrieved from http://www.aritzhaupt.com/addie_explained/# CC BY license 4.0.


Thursday, July 25, 2019

Instructional Designing with ADDIE: The Development Stage


Instructional designers have the task of creating instructional experiences that are beneficial and meaningful to learners while fulfilling the need(s) of learners and the organization. This can be a daunting task in essence; however, the ADDIE model breaks this process down into five stages: analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The first two stages have been discussed in previous post. This post will focus on the third stage of the ADDIE Model, development. According to Ritzhaupt et al. (2017), “The Development phase addresses the tools and processes used to create instructional material”. This is another important stage in the planning process that designers must refer to a previous stage. In order to effectively choose instructional tools and processes, instructional designers must know where they are going (have clear objectives) and know their cargo (the learners) to make sounds decision about their form of transportation (tools) and the route they will take (processes).



As I reflect over my years as an educator, I can remember several times when I created lessons and did not take the time that was needed to invest in the appropriate tools for smooth delivery. Requiring second graders to type in web addresses can drain all the positive energy from a lesson; therefore, I quickly began creating Symbaloos for my students, a bookmarking tool. As an instructional coach working with educators, I found myself utilizing Symbaloo more with educators who were not accustomed to typing in URLs, and they were extremely excited when they learned all they had to do was click on the tile. Symbaloo has become one of the tools I use when I know that my learners may struggle with typing at a certain paste and/or hand- eye coordination.

Symbaloo has worked extremely well for me with students and educators. At this point, I want to utilize a tool that will be beneficial for me as well as learners. One tool I have not really used is Google Bookmark. I laugh as I type this and look at the top of my screen and see sites bookmarked. This was done without any prior knowledge of what I was doing. I have since researched Google Bookmark and found a way that it can be beneficial for me as a presenter and for my participants. 


First, Google Bookmark will enable me to organize my material that will be presented during my presentation/lesson. I like to navigate to different sites, which can get confusing at times. Google Bookmark provides me with the opportunity to create folders and place them on my tool bar, arranging them in the order I will use them. According to Recess Tec, “The main advantage of your Google Bookmarks page is the ability to store your bookmarks and to access them from any browser on any computer.” As I mentioned before, I have used Symbaloo and have had much success; however, I want to teach other educators how to save and organize sites as well. What better way for me to do this than to be a presenting model.




References
Addie Model in Training Slideshare (2015, Dec 22). Development Phase [Image File]. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/search?q=development+stage+of+addie&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjgs6yu2tHjAhVQLK0KHdk-AOw.
 [J. Clark Gardner]. [2011, Sept. 25]. The ADDIE development phase [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzYDNWhQWYA.
Recess Tec (2015, May 24). Google Bookmarks. Retrieved from http://recesstec.com/google-bookmarks/.
Rithzaupt, A., Lee, B., Eichler., Calhoun, C., Salama, C., Nichols, J., Wilson, M., Hafizah, N., Davis, A., Beatty, O., Yaylaci, S., Sahau, S. & Wildberger, W. (2017, December 12). ADDIE Explained [text]. Retrieved from http://www.aritzhaupt.com/addie_explained/# CC BY license 4.0.
[WSD Training]. [2019, Jan. 22]. Using Bookmarks in Google Chrome to be more efficient on the web. [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFx-3BML34Y.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Instructional Designing with ADDIE: The Design Stage


When designing a training session, it is important for designers to determine the type of learning that needs to take place. According to Ritzhaupt et al. (2017), “Many instructional designers refer to Gagne’s taxonomy of learning (1985) as a theory that identifies the major domains of learning: cognitive strategies, psychomotor skills, attitude, intellectual skills and verbal information. These classifications indicate the differences between these learning domains that must be accommodated in order to design effective instruction”. Once the type of learning is determined, designers must then establish learning objectives that could fall in one of the following categories: cognitive, psychomotor, and affective. “Cognitive objectives are the most common in an academic setting; these objectives exist to determine how the learners can demonstrate they have gained new knowledge. Psychomotor objectives can be used to define the ideal execution of a physical skill set. Affective objectives are the last major category of instructional objectives.  These objectives pertain to attitudes and values” Ritzhaupt et al. (2017). Now that the learning domain and learning objectives are established, designers can write all objectives for the learners.

When objectives are properly written, designers are then tasked with selecting the instructional strategies and activities that will motivate, empower, and provide meaningful practice opportunities for learners. One strategy I have used is called Socratic Seminar (a combination of the fishbowl and Socratic discussion). During a Socratic Seminar, students respond to an open-ended statement by providing supporting evidence from the text that they have read, while making meaningful real-world connections.  Students (the outer circle from the fishbowl) use a rubric to assess the group as they participate in the Socratic Seminar and provide evidence for their ratings. This strategy always challenged my students and pushed so many out of their comfort zone because they had to speak in front of others. The first thing I had to do before starting a Socratic Seminar was have my students to set their norms to gain buy-in and set up accountability. Three objectives would be covered each time my students completed a seminar: a speaking and listening objective, reading objective. My students gained a love for Socratic Seminars and began creating questions and statements for me, based on the text they had read, and I must say, they did a great job creating them.

Another strategy I have used with students and teachers is “Stories with Holes” by Nathan Levy. These are short stories/ scenarios that omit information (holes) and learners can only acquire information by asking questions that warrant a yes or no response. Critical and creative thinking are nurtured, and great listening skills are a must. These stories work well with motivating and engaging learners. According to Education World (2013), “Community Toolbox contributor Phil Rabinowitz explains that critical thinking is an essential skill for 21st-century citizens, since it involves analyzing, questioning and challenging situations, issues and information of all kinds. We use critical thinking when we raise questions about survey results, theories, media stories, scientific research, political statements and conventional wisdom". Creating objectives and selecting the instructional strategies and learning activities are extremely important to student success.


References

 Education World (2013). Top 10 strategies for building students’ critical thinking. Retrieved from https://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/critical-thinking-higher-level-instructional-strategies.shtml.
[Fairfax Network]. [2014, Aug. 27]. Best Practices: Socratic Seminar for Critical Thinking [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-PBzjeYdp0
[J. Clark Gardner]. [2011, Sept. 25]. The ADDIE Design phase [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhLIiF9QyTo&t=244s.
Rithzaupt, A., Lee, B., Eichler., Calhoun, C., Salama, C., Nichols, J., Wilson, M., Hafizah, N., Davis, A., Beatty, O., Yaylaci, S., Sahau, S. & Wildberger, W. (2017, December 12). ADDIE Explained [text]. Retrieved from http://www.aritzhaupt.com/addie_explained/# CC BY license 4.0.

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Instructional Designing with ADDIE


At some point in our career, we have all experienced a workshop where we wondered why we were in attendance again and what exactly would we take away from the session that we could apply in our day-to -day life. It is sad to say, but the reality is that many professionals experience this type of workshop too often. Unfortunate experiences like this happens when designers do not effectively plan professional development sessions by focusing on the instructional design components. According to Ritzhaupt et. al (2017), “Instructional design is a field concerned with the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of instructional experiences designed to make the acquisition of knowledge and skills more efficient and effective” (pg. 1).
One instructional design model that is used by designers is the ADDIE Instructional Model, which stands for analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. These five components work cohesively, providing pertinent information that will enable the designer to make prudent decisions regarding the needs, goals, objectives, and action steps for the session/lesson. The first component, analysis, drives the remaining components. Ritzhaupt et.al (2017) states, “Analysis is the first stage of the ADDIE model because one must first determine what must be done in order to know what needs to be accomplished. The Analysis stage provides this gathered information to the remaining stages of the instructional design process, which builds upon this critical information to produce the solution” (pg. 5).


As stated in the beginning paragraph, we have all experienced a workshop where we wondered why we were there. This question arose because we did not see the relevance of the information and/ or we did not see the information as our primary need. Glynn and Tolsma (2017) believe that the analysis portion of ADDIE takes an empathetic role in learning about the learners and stakeholder. Glynn and Tolsma (2017) states," As ADDIE practitioners, we conduct interviews, document organizational and individual performance results, and identify measures and skill and knowledge requirements to determine the level of instruction needed. We need to do this; we should do this. Yet, as we do, we create distance between our work and the actual performer in the role. Empathy closes that distance". Instructional designers must make sure they take time to complete the analysis component of ADDIE before moving forward. One cannot move forward if he/she does not know where they are going.


Reference
Futuristic Playground-Wordpress [Image]. (2014). Retrieved from https://futuristicplayground.wordpress.com/2014/11/06/the-design-phase-of-addie/.
Glynn, K. & Tolsma, D., (2017). Design thinking meets addie. Learning and Development, 34(1714), 1-22.
[J. Clark Gardner]. [2011, Sept. 11]. The ADDIE Analysis phase [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZdv5lrJs4U.
Rithzaupt, A., Lee, B., Eichler., Calhoun, C., Salama, C., Nichols, J., Wilson, M., Hafizah, N., Davis, A., Beatty, O., Yaylaci, S., Sahau, S. & Wildberger, W. (2017, December 12). ADDIE Explained [text]. Retrieved from http://www.aritzhaupt.com/addie_explained/# CC BY license 4.0.
The Addie Model [Image]. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.savannahstate.edu/elearning/addie.shtml.


Thursday, June 20, 2019

Virtual Learning


Virtual learning has been around for years and continues to make headway. I have completed several online classes and have a clear understanding of how distance learning works. As an elementary/middle school educator, I have heard about ACCESS (of course from some of the high school teachers within my district), but I did not have a clear understanding of exactly what it is and how it works. As I read the chapter and completed my research for module 3, I learned several things about virtual learning, especially ACCESS and Edgenuity. I will highlight a few.
The first thing that I learned was that students decide to take virtual classes for other reasons outside of AP credit. Some of those reasons consist of having the flexibility to leave school early for work, other extenuating circumstances, and just the opportunity to take classes that would not have been available to you within the school building. According to Morgan (2016), “Virtual schools also help students take classes they would otherwise miss due to extenuating circumstances. Roblyer (2006) discusses several examples of students desperately needing an online program to graduate” (pg. 74).
Proponents by Lisa Lavender

Secondly, I learned that there are states that allow students to complete an online course for a fee; however, they will not provide the grade for the student. The numerical grade must come from the students’ school system. For example, GeorgiaVirtual School (GAVS) and Florida Virtual School (FLVS) will allow students from outside of their state to complete an online course. The last thing that I learned was that students who are incarcerated can complete online courses to receive their diploma and/or continue their education.
Virtual learning has many benefits; however, there are a couple of things I find concerning. As I completed my research, I could not find any clear data that shows the effectiveness of virtual learning as it relates to student performance. Morgan (2016) states, “Critics object to the rapid growth of online programs in K–12 settings because of insufficient evidence about its effectiveness” (pg. 74).  Another area of concern is the effect virtual learning has on students with disabilities. Many students with disabilities need the social aspect that comes with the traditional face-to-face classroom. I am confident that improvements and consistent evaluations are coming. Simonson, Smaldino, & Zvacek (2015) states, “As distance education in the United States increases in importance, evaluation will continue to be a critical component of the process of improvement” (pg. 318). I really like the Kirkpatrick and Kirkpatrick’s evaluation approach because it focuses more on the student (Learning, transfer and results). When taking a close look at levels 2-4, instructors should be able to see what adjustments need to be done to make sure the conditions for learning are present within the virtual classroom.
Overall, I have gained a lot from this module, but I still have a question about how a teacher’s schedule looks when he/she teaches a traditional and virtual class. How does the planning time look for them? 
References
Morgan, H. (2016). Online instruction and virtual schools for middle and high school students: Twenty-first -century fads or progressive teaching methods for today’s pupils? Clearing House, 88(2), 72-76.
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., & Zvacek, S. (2015). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (6th ed.). Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

[Yvette Sands]. [2019, Mar 3]. Online education students with disabilities [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyx3Fwl6BEA.

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

Why Schoology?


As I reflect over this school year and the many successes and challenges teachers and students faced, I ponder over what can assist both parties in their journey towards success. Our district has outlined reading and math initiatives including instructional shifts that will benefit students greatly, so what else is needed. Teaching and learning in the 21st Century must effectively integrate technology to prepare students to compete in a global society. With this being stated, teachers and students at the elementary level should combine face-to-face traditional teaching with distance education (blended learning) to prepare young learners for technological advances in education. There is no research to prove which delivery method produces the best results in student performance. According to Simonson, Smaldino, & Zvacek (2015), “When courses are designed and instruction delivered, what are the templates, the processes, the approaches to be used to determine whether a module, course, or program should be delivered face to face or online? Instructional design processes help the instructor make informed decisions about technology use” (pg. 127).                  
Instructional Design
As an instructional coach, one of my major roles is to assist teachers during the lesson planning process. During this time, teachers work collaboratively through our district’s lesson plan protocol that is standards-aligned planning. We focus on the standard(s) and the needs of students asking the following questions:

·         What are my students’ misconceptions?
·         What background information is needed?
·          What barriers can I foresee?
·         What is/are the big take away(s)?
·         How do I deliver this information to the different tiers of students?
·         How will I check for understanding and adjust?
Because our lesson planning time is focused on making sure students are receiving and retaining information with a conceptual understanding, Schoology will work well at my elementary school. Schoology is an “LMS focusing upon individual students, tracking the learning needs and outcomes over periods of time that can be several years in length” (Simonson et.al, 2015).
  Teaching
       More than 200 educational tools and platform integrations teachers use to engage their students in the learning process while integrating technology are already embedded within the Schoology platform. This works well for young learners who find themselves on other sites because they have typed in the wrong URL or accidently clicked on another site. Teachers and students alike become frustrated and technology becomes the distractor instead of the tool. 
      
     Students
       Since Schoology is a closed system, this allows students and teachers to have the distance learning experience without the need to surf the World Wide Web. As an educator of young students, this provides the ideal setting to incorporate Digital Citizenship. Educators must teach and model proper online etiquette. As stated in Simonson et. al (2015), “It is essential that students understand the complexity of the distance education setting in order to be certain to participate in an appropriate manner” (pg. 192).  Additionally, Schoology provides a discussion forum where students can collaborate with other students practicing what they have learned regarding proper etiquette and content.
 Support Material
     Support materials and how to use them are extremely important. Schoology provides teachers and students the luxury of having support materials all in one place. It reminds me of ACAP (Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program), the new assessment for Alabama. Our school had the opportunity to be an ACAP Field Test School and we administered the ACAP to our second graders. ACAP is not adaptive like Scantron and it is packed with technology enhanced features like masking (ability to cover parts of a problem and only focus on one part), cross-out tool, highlighter, magnifier, and line guide. These are tools that students will use as support during the state mandated test. 
     We must expose our students to support materials and tools, so they are ready for the test and beyond. My biggest fear is students will not do well, not because they do not know the content but because they do not know how to navigate through the platform and use the support materials and tools. According to Simonson et.al (2015), “teaching and learning materials are critically important to the effective practice of distance education” (pg. 223).
 Assessment
     Assessment is the means of measuring learning gains and can be used to improve the teaching-learning process in distance education settings, as well as traditional environments (Simonson et.al, 2015). The analytics of Schoology provides teachers with information regarding student performance aligned to the standards. Teachers and students can identify gaps and learning and adjust.


References
[Jessie Metzger]. [2017, Nov 17]. Schoology analytics [Video File]. Retrieved       from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvBmhbUrHRc.
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., & Zvacek, S. (2015). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (6th ed.). Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Distance Education


My very first experience with distance education took place when I registered for an E-learning class back in the summer of 2011. At that time, I needed a few PLU credits to renew my leadership certification. The opportunity to complete a free course, gain knowledge about technology that I could employ in my classroom, all while gaining a PLU was more than enough to convince me to sign up.
Before taking the class, I had no formal teachings on/about distance education. The things that I quickly learned about it was that I did not have to drive on campus to attend the class and I could work in my pajamas. Today, many adults are choosing distance education because of the several benefits. EZtalks list those benefits as greater flexibility, no commuting, significant cost savings, and convenient learning.



With all the above benefits of distance education, I still experienced something I found to be a distraction and quite annoying. Some of the links that were placed within the assignment page, were not active links; therefore, I could not get to some of the resources. Because there was no face-to-face interaction, I had to email my instructor and wait for a response. Waiting for a response was one of the hardest things about distance education. Additionally, most of the classes were course management systems (CMSs). According to Simonson, Smaldino, & Zvacek (2015), “Course management systems (CMSs) were largely places for faculty to place lecture notes and other materials for student study, and for students to obtain those materials , take quizzes, and check their grades, and were very instructor centered” (pp. 110).




As technology progressed, so has distance education. Web 2.0 technologies open the doors of communications for so many teachers and students. Blogging and social networking are great ways to effectively communicate in an online class. These technologies have created a more student-centered approach to distance education. “These technologies have extraordinary potential for education and the kinds of learner-engaging functions that should be incorporated into the next generation of course management systems (Simonson et.al. 2015).
Currently, many people are taking advantage of distance learning. The social media aspect of the classes such as Facebook, allow for more student/teacher interaction as well as the video conferences. Ashley Holloway, a recent graduate describes her experience with distance education. According to Eastep, “The biggest advantage of online education, according to this working professional? Flexibility. “Attending classes residentially does not fit well with the typical work schedule,” she said. “The beauty of distance learning is being able to ‘attend’ class and complete assignments at whatever time of day is most convenient for you.”
As a result of completing E-learning classes online, I began integrating technology in my classroom and saw great results. Technology has become one of my passions; therefore, I enrolled into the Instructional Technology program at Montevallo University. If it were not for distance learning and the advances in student/instructor communication, I would not be able to complete this program.

                                                                   References
Eastep, A. (2015, May) Pressing on toward the goal.  59(4), 68-74.
Eztalks. Advantages and disadvantages of distance learning. Retrieved from https://www.eztalks.com/elearning/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-distance-learning.html.
[Interview Questions]. [2019, January 10]. Disadvantages of online learning [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2BawDG-NrI.
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., & Zvacek, S. (2015). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (6th ed.). Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.
[The skills network]. [2016, May 6]. Advantages of distance learning [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4m-l-QpqxOo.






Monday, April 22, 2019

A Technology Plan: The Building Block


We are all aware of the importance of having a plan of action before completing any task. This does not change regarding technology initiatives. All technology initiatives should start with an established technology plan that will be used to monitor its effectiveness. According to Whitehead, Jensen, & Boschee (2013), “An assessment of the technology plan should reveal the quality of change that occurred during the actual implementation process. Assessment indicators need to reveal the quality of change rather than just a snapshot of current conditions.” (pg. 230).  This simply means that administrators should focus their technology initiatives around their school’s shared vision, which focuses on student performance.
With a focus on student performance, educators must take a close look at teaching and learning and ask the following questions:
1.       How will this benefit my students?
2.       How will this fit within our goal(s)?
Revenaugh states, “Before you add one more computer or one more software license to your stockpile, ask yourself how it fits into the larger picture and meets your goals. "How will this help raise test scores in math? How will this improve students' reading levels?" If there's no good answer to the question at hand, skip the initiative or move it down the priority list.”
Additionally, professional development must be included in the technology plan and evaluated as well.  Whitehead et.al (2013) states, “Objectives of any quality professional development program involving the use of technology should be consistent with the school district shared vision” (pg. 231). For effective teaching and learning to take place, there must be continuous professional development for teachers and training for students.
A technology plan is the school’s foundation for any technology initiative. The plan allows leaders and educators to share their vision and goals with community and business partners, which could possibly lead to additional support. Also, educational leaders can use data from benchmarks to show the effects on student performance. Moreover, a technology plan is vital for an effective technology initiative to occur.




Reference
Impacting student achievement with 1:1 technology [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJStqV2JyRk.
Revenaugh, M. (2018). 10 tips for school technology planning. Retrieved from http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=52.
Technology Integration Plan [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NukBIvNeao.

Whitehead, B.M., Jensen, D., Boschee, F. (2013). Planning for Technology: A guide for school administrators, technology coordinators, and curriculum leaders. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin.

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Future Proofing Our Schools


Since technology is ever-changing, 21st century teaching and learning continues to evolve into a melting pot of technological advances. These advances place school administrators in the hot seat regarding technology integration. They are given the task of future proofing their schools when integrating technology for 21st century teaching and learning. According to Whitehead, Jensen, & Boschee (2013), “Today’s school leaders have minimal guidance when facing harsh budgets. Decisions dealing with economic conditions are generally represented by two distinct lines of thought. First, there is the response to cutback leadership or management. Second, there is a move toward crisis management such as advocating slashing budgets, reducing programs, and eliminating teachers and staff. Given these two limited options, school leaders need to explore all possibilities if they are to accommodate tomorrow’s technology” (pg. 170).
As stated in my previous blog regarding technology integration, it is important to establish a shared vision and identify and nurture your teacher leaders in order to reap the benefits of effective professional development. Future proofing a school requires a shared vision with a technology plan. This plan outlines the technological needs of the school with goals, action steps, and benchmarks. This plan is an administrator’s/technology team’s blue print that can be used to leverage funds and support from businesses and the community.
This support can be used to make sure that the school’s infrastructure is interoperable for different devices. Bruce (2017) states, “Costly equipment could be virtually unusable if the students’ devices are incompatible, and schools don’t often have the budget to purchase new systems every few years—to future-proof the classroom for whatever technology students prefer to use, schools can’t afford to bet on predictions about the winner of the battle for the classroom and if it will be Windows, Google or Apple. An education technology system should be able to work with any device or platform so students and teachers aren’t limited to what and how they can share content now and in the future."
Additionally, future proofing a school requires teacher leaders who will not only provide professional development for other teachers but also provide training to students. Students are digital natives who come to our classes using different devices; however, most of them have not been exposed to using the devices in a manner needed to master the Student ISTE Standards. Bruce (2017) also states, “If students are unfamiliar with the user interface of a device, it can make classroom operations clunky, and dampen their enthusiasm with using the device. Teachers often go through training to learn to use devices that have their own interface, but students don’t receive that training; this creates a classroom environment centered on the teachers using technology, and students watching, which does little to solve the issue of classroom engagement, because while some digital content can be incorporated, students can’t have their own interaction with it”.
For educators to effectively prepare students, they must be taught using the Student ISTE Standards. This means educators must teach student how to use the devices, so they become independent learners. Individualized instruction will enable students to work at their own pace and education is no longer a one size fits all approach. The two videos below are examples of two future proofed schools where students are independent learners.





References
Bruce, B. (2017). The 5 components of a future-proofed technology initiative. Retrieved from https://www.eschoolnews.com/2017/04/12/components-future-technology/.
Lincoln elementary future ready school [Video] Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1IvMu7mnG0.
What will schools look like in the future? [Video] Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZlgYiXzu58.
Whitehead, B.M., Jensen, D., Boschee, F. (2013). Planning for Technology: A guide for school administrators, technology coordinators, and curriculum leaders. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin.