Inquiry Research by Leslie

Is the learning environment engaging for students?

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 13:44:54 UTC

When I first walked into the fifth grade classroom, it was very engaging, even for me. The classroom is very colorful and inviting. The students and the teacher had their own space for their belongings. The studentdesk were set up in four groups of six which allowed great classroom flow. Because this is a technology-based classroom, the charts and classroom management has a real-life connection. Example if this is the book area is labeled iBook, science area is called iExplore, and an interactive chart called iThink.

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 14:30:23 UTC

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 14:30:59 UTC

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 14:32:00 UTC

Is the teacher engaged?

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 14:34:22 UTC

The teacher used the full space of the classroom to interact with her students. I believe the teacher did this to promote a desired behavior for her students to stay on task. This also allows the student with needs one-on-one time with the teacher. There were also sections in the room to promote student reaction to a specific subject. Examples of this is the iTweetThis is a great way for the teacher to engage with her students without using class time.

Are the students engaged?

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 15:18:24 UTC

Because this classroom is technology-based, student engagement is easily accomplished. The students have access to Mac desktops, Mac Pro laptops, iPads, and Mini iPads. Two Smartboards are also used. One tool that I was very impressed with is called Active Expressions. Each student has an Active Expression number that is associated with a hand held device. A question is presented on the Smartboards and the students are able to answer with their device. The answer is then presented in a "poll" fashion. The teacher is able to get a quick assessment on where a student is cognitively on the subject. The students were very engaged when I

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 15:39:14 UTC

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 15:40:12 UTC

Are the learning strategies engaging for learners?

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 15:41:28 UTC

One strategy the teacher used was the sticky-note quick check. The teacher uses this as an entrance/exit ticket for her students. Another learning strategy that was used was Simon Says. The teacher would make a statement in Simon Says format and if the student answers incorrectly, they sit down. I feel confident to say that she uses many learning strategies throughout the day, but the two that I witness had the students very engaged and involved in the lesson. Many students asked to continue to play. The way the teacher would switch the content delivery kept the students interested in the material.

Bully Protocol

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 16:21:19 UTC

When a bully situation occurs, the teacher stated that it usually happens without her knowledge of the situation. Email from parents or another student usually brings it to her attention. When this situation arises, the teacher will address the behavior with the students individually. Depending on the severarity of the bullying, school counslors are available to help the teacher. There is not a "formal" bully procedure in place.

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 16:39:25 UTC

lesliel0314 — 2013-09-30 16:40:10 UTC