Part IV: Evaluation
In order to really measure success, it is important have an evaluation in place. Since this is not my first year teaching fractions, I have the ability to compare the older data (without the integration of the technologies) to current benchmark and test scores. Although you are comparing different groups of students, it can serve as an indicator of whether or not what you are doing is sticking with the students and learning is taking place. Also, a pre-test (in the form of an online poll) is given prior to the unit, this test can be compared to the final test to measure student growth at the end of the unit. I also think it is imperative to get student feedback throughout the unit. Some of the best people to ask how students learn are the students themselves. Short exit cards (or a Google Reflection Doc) can be put in place to have the students say what worked for them and what didn’t. Allow for students to explain their A-ha moment and see where it fit into your teaching. Another constant evaluation is via observation. Observations can be done by you, the teacher, or someone else. However, I think a good educator always looks back at the lesson and thinks about what he/she could improve and/or what when well. A new pair of eyes is always good as well. How does another educator view what you have done? Did you correctly integrate the technology? Was the content not covered? Sometimes you overlook certain aspects since you know what was supposed to happen. However, it does seem that success is measured by data. Therefore, comparing numbers (data) will be my primary source of evaluation.
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