Chapter 6: Assessment

Well, the chapter that talks about the most challenging aspects of collaboration! I know, as a department, we have had several conversations about this topic. And, once again I think Buzzeo does a great job of articulating what needs to be done, and gives us the tools to do it! She does not disappoint, some great ideas here.

I felt the discussion of summative vs formative assessment very valuable. And, I agree, that we do need to be more involved in formative assessments. Page 66 really outlines our need for this type of assessment. Once again I found myself highlighting and taking margin notes!

I usually do conference with each student for their sophomore research paper, I am now going to revise this conference to be more of a formative assessment. If I am taking the time to meet individually with each student it should be more meaningful than just helping them find sources! I am also now considering something like the checklists on page 67 and 69 for the freshmen project. I like the idea that these both encourage self-reflection on the part of the student as well as a formative assessment by the librarian. Both of these would provide a chance for us to assess progress, and then perhaps reteach a topic if needed.

And, I liked the discussion of TRAILS. I have used this in the past and agreed with many of the comments. I agree, it is more summative, but it does provide a base-line and helps up to focus on skills that are weak. I heard that they are trialing a version for 3rd grade.

I jump in the conversation after everyone has had a chance to weigh in.

Chapter 5: Unit Planning Templates

Chapter 5 was short and sweet...but it was just what I needed to get myself in gear. Plus Suzanne's inspirational email about her template from the print shop didn't hurt. I love the rational behind having this type of template, I wonder how I have managed so long without one. Well, when I was younger the mind was a steel trap and I remembered things...now, not so much. Now I liken my mind to a sieve. So, for that reason, and the reasons Toni Buzzeo outlines, I am on board.

I perused the sites she recommends, and looked at the templates in the book, and am trying to decide on a final format. But, I really have been thinking about putting this online. Buzzeo, on page 57, discusses the advantages of using an electronic version on either a wiki or googledocs. This would facilitate collaboration. And, as discussed on page 58, "An electronic file of collaborative planning forms is a valuable log of teaching efficacy and student learning in the library and the school." Given our economic times, this would be helpful in justifying our program.
What does everyone else think about the electronic vs print format?

Does anyone already use one of these? I know we created something via the LSTA grant a few years ago...but once again I put off using it. Not anymore.
Perhaps we could all have something pulled together for our next meeting to show Rob?


Looking forward to hearing from you.