The Art and Science of Teaching
Robert J. Marzano~a study group for EES Staff (Ch1, JMiller)
Chapter 1: What will I do to establish and communicate learning goals, track student progress, and celebrate success?
This is instructional design question one of ten, of Marzano's comprehensive framework for effective instruction and encompasses the most basic issue a teacher can consider (p. 9). This design question actually includes three very distinct, yet highly related elements: 1) setting and communicating learning goals, 2) tracking student progress, and 3) celebrating success (p. 9).
What does Marzano say?
"Major reviews of research on the effects of formative assessment indicate that it might be one of the more powerful weapons in a teacher's arsenal." - Marzano
1) Goal Setting
- clear goals provide an initial target
- goal setting must be done well
- setting goals needs to happen at the right time
- power is in use of goal setting and feedback in tandem
- goal setting is the beginning step
2) Goal Tracking
- charts/graphs
- use of scales (rubrics)
- formative assessments directly relate to feedback
- weekly assessments increase gains
- essential for communication (parent-student-teacher)
3) Goal Success
- feedback
- knowledge gain
- verbal recognition; stand up/round of applause
- promote self-regulation
- develop intrinsic motivation
Theory into Practice ~ What I have figured out works. ~ J.Miller
1) Goal Setting
- keep it simple
- goals may vary
- use the "big" words (proper vocabulary)
- ask students their plan for now and the future
- rubrics/scoring guides/checklists
2) Goal Tracking
- binders and checklists are essential (student/teacher)
- find tools that assist you; data sheets
- hold the students responsible
- evidences of learning gains
- spreadsheets for everything
3) Goal Success
- define the audience and make reports
- conference individually to show interest
- safe environment to informally share progress
- immediate and continuous feedback
- did I mention feedback, feedback, feedback? :)
"You get good at what you practice." ~ J.Miller
Marzano's Action Steps
1. Make a distinction between learning goals and learning activities or assignments.
2. Write a rubric or scale for each learning goal.
3. Have students identify their own learning goals.
4. Assess students using a formative approach.
5. Have students chart their own progress on each learning goal.
6. Recognize and celebrate growth.
"Knowledge gain is the currency of student success in a formative assessment system." -Marzano
My final suggestions: Start small. Keep it simple. Make 1-3 changes per year your goal. If you make it further, GREAT!
Prepared by Jenn Miller
Email: jmiller@wpsd.us
Website: wrangellschools.org
Location: 350 Bennett Street, Wrangell, AK, United States
Phone: 907 874 2321