Thursday, August 2, 2018

Kathy Feigenbaum's Blog Post 3


Video Choice #1: Contracts
-When working in groups on extended assignments, students may run into problems related to focus and motivation.  Some students are naturally more motivated and may want to keep progress moving forward. Other students may struggle to focus or lag in motivation or interest. It may be hard for the group to find a balance, which may cause problems with behavior.
-Developing contracts within the groups help to establish agreement on expectations and give the groups a standard to refer to as they communicate and make decisions. Students work together on the agreement at the beginning of the school year as well as at the beginning of a project. The fact that students create the contract gives them ownership, which helps give it authority.
-I like that the article mentioned what the consequences are for not following the contract. Warnings are given within the group, and after three warnings the student would be “fired” from the group. This process holds students accountable and helps make the contract effective.

Video Choice #2 Group Work
-I think that assessing the roles of group members may help to alleviate issues that may otherwise impede upon the success of the group’s work. It will help members work cohesively to produce quality work.
-Mr. Jupp gives feedback throughout. He said, “you are the leader, so you need to make sure it all matches up.”  “Make certain there’s a theme.” He makes it personal.
-Judgement by peers helps give ownership of the learning to the learner. They learn from each other.

3 comments:

  1. I like the idea of students having a contract when they work in small groups to produce a product. I agree with the idea of removing a student who does not follow the contract from the small group.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I also thought the idea of students getting "fired" from the group was interesting.I think that could be a delicate issue to navigate with younger students, but having the students hold each other accountable is powerful. It means a lot more to know that you could be letting down your team if you don't do your part.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi Angie,
    I am glad the two videos you chose that focused on collaboration were helpful to you in considering ways to use strategies such as group contracts and peer assessments. Many times I find videos beneficial because I can see the strategy in action.

    Sincerely,
    Dawn

    ReplyDelete