Now that you are one month in, how do you see this experience changing your classroom? Think in terms of what you teach and how you teach. How will your students know something has changed?
I think the organization within the lab will really change how I approach teaching science. One area I want to change is to include more education on using data reliability in my science and math courses. Analysts use consistent standards and controls for quality assurance within their tests. In the past, I have not included a lot of instruction on using standard measures. Typically, my students each measure or test their sample and we compare results as a class. I think it would be valuable for my students to begin this practice of also measuring/testing a known control sample.
In their daily lives, my students are constantly bombarded with immediate feedback. Video games, twitter, online shopping, texting, and facebook all provide a constant stream of information that updates them on their performance. Using quality control standards would also provide them (and me) with immediate feedback on their performance. If they are not able to meet the standard, I want them to problem solve and determine the reason for the discrepancy. I can also provide additional scaffolding to help them be successful. I hope including more controls will help them to become more aware of checking their own work and ensuring accuracy.
