If you've been training or coaching on CLASS recently, you've probably started to notice that CLASS domains and dimensions are applicable to life even outside the classroom. Perhaps you've started wondering why your partner doesn't have more regard, you've started asking your mother more open-ended questions, or you've caught yourself attending to your dog's positive behaviors.
CLASS Specialists are always thinking about the complexity of the CLASS tool as we prepare for our trainings. As a trained CLASS observer, I am comfortable observing and recognizing quality interactions that fit in the tool. But I needed a strategy to convey this information to those who may not be as familiar with the tool.
As it turns out, using an analogy is a perfect way to make the complex relatable, less overwhelming, and more familiar to our participants.
Concept Development and Quality of Feedback. These dimensions fall under the Instructional Support domain in the Pre-K CLASS measure. They have some similarities, of course—but they are truly distinctive in the ways they play out in the classroom.
It's no surprise that we at Teachstone have been impacted and inspired by many teachers. So, today we wanted to share a little more about who these educators are and how they've made a difference in our lives.
A few weeks ago, I enjoyed a ladies night with some friends at the movies. We had it all: reclining seats, heavily buttered popcorn, and refreshing beverages. What did we see? Wonder Woman, of course! Not only was the blockbuster action-packed and fun, but it was also inspiring. After the movie, I reflected on the idea that anyone could be a super hero. In fact, in my job here at Teachstone, I interact with everyday superheroes all the time. Just a couple days ago, I spoke to a professional development manager who unexpectedly filled in for a colleague and conducted six additional CLASS trainings in one month! Talk about superpowers!
If you're like me, you've started to notice that CLASS domains and dimensions are applicable to life even outside the classroom. You start wondering why your siblings aren't giving more regard to your perspective, and you start asking your significant other more open-ended questions.
InterAct 2017 was a huge success! Huge thanks to everyone who attended, presented, and to the Teachstone staff who helped out behind the scenes (especially Meghan Cornwell for orchestrating the event). You can check out a few recordings of the 2017 sessions and keynotes on our website.
This spring we released a new research paper, "Effective Teacher-Child Interactions and Child Outcomes." It summarizes what 150 peer review studies have to say about CLASS. In conjuction, we designed a handy infographic with a few key points and stats from the paper. You'll also find a few facts about Teachstone. Enjoy!
InterAct 2017 is not too far away. If you didn't attend last year, you probably don't know what to expect, or have a good idea of who you might might meet. Read our list below to find out who you will you be. And which of these people are most like your favorite work colleagues?
