Classroom Learning Walks

1. Classroom Learning Walks The Public Schools of Petoskey

2. Learning Walks:A Classroom Walk-Through Model Research Based Management By Wandering Around (Hewlett Packard and Peters & Waterman)

3. Effects of Researched Learning Walk Models • Improved Teaching and Learning • Higher Student Achievement • Better Student Conduct • More Reflective Thinking • Increased Communication

4. Several Types of Classroom Visits • Formal Teacher Observation, • Informal Teacher Visitation, and • Classroom Learning Walks

5. Classroom Learning Walk Design • A classroom visit with- • Focus(On several main areas) • Brevity(2-4 minutes) • Feedback(informal with staff) • Reflection (growth opportunity)

6. A Classroom Learning Walk Provides • Another view ofeffective teachingand learning • Another way toconnect and communicate • Another lens to contemplateour common district goals in action • Another avenue for school improvement

7. A Classroom Learning Walkis- Not A Formal Evaluation

8. Classroom Learning Walk Goals • Continual Learning • Frequent, Relaxed Classroom Visits • Identification of Best Practices • School Improvement Examples • Increased Student Achievement

9. Classroom Learning Walk Four Parts: • #1- Objective(s) • #2- Instruction • #3- Engagement • #4- Environment Followed by Feedback & Reflection

10. #1: Objective(s) Is There a Clear Objective or Target for the Students and the Teacher? • Standards & Benchmarks (GLCEs/HSCEs) • Goals & Objectives • Continual Progress Monitoring

11. #2: Instruction Are Good Instructional Strategies Evident? • Research-Based - Guided Practice & Check for Understanding • Various Assessment Tools • Differentiation Opportunities • Linked to District Goals for Reading, Writing, Math, Science, SS, etc.

12. #3: Engagement Are the Learners & Teacher Engaged in the Learning Process? • The portion of classroom that is actively engaged in meaningful learning pursuits (target 100%)

13. #4:Environment Is the Classroom Environment Conducive to Learning? • Organization for Maximum Learning • Evidence of Classroom Management • Positive Classroom Climate and Culture

14. Feedback & Reflection • Give Feedback • Short, Personal or Staff Discussions • Shared Anecdotal Observations A Reflection Opportunity- Evaluate, Apply, & Adjust Personally and /or as a Staff

15. Purposeful Reflection • Looks Back • Makes Sense of It • Learns • Looks Forward • Anticipates • Finds Resources • Gets Prepared for the Future!

16. The Classroom Learning Walk It can be an exciting and worthwhile journey for everyone!

17. Sources • Johnson, H. (2001). Leadership by walking around: Walkthroughs and instructional improvement. The Principals’ Partnership. Retrieved on September 14, 2006, at http://principalspartnership.com/feature203.html • Marzano, R., Pickering, D., & Pollock, J. (2001). Classroom instruction that works: Researched based strategies for increasing student achievement. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. • Rutherford, P. (2005). The 21st century mentor’s handbook: Creating a culture for learning. Alexandria, VA: Just ASK Publications. • Schmoker, M. (2006). Results Now. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. • Wiedemann, T. (n.d.). Welcome to: Classroom walk-through (CWT). Berrien Springs High School. Berrien Springs, MI. Retrieved on September 14, 2006, at twiedema@remc11.k12.mi.us Prepared by Lynn Slanec, Ed.S.