Enhanced Internet-based Learning
Two enhancements to the IBM Learning Village set of Internet-based applications for educators, the
Authentic Assessment Tool (AAT) and
Jurying/Best Practices (JBP), will make it easier for K-12 teachers and administrators to create rich learning environments. These tools are designed to increase collaboration and accountability while promoting uniform standards. The AAT allows teachers to check all types of student work, from compositions to mathematical word problems, against defined state and district standards. JBP allows teachers to work collaboratively to develop and share successful lesson plans and teaching activities, and aids in the development of teaching methods.
AAT uses Rubrics and Benchmarks, which include desired characteristics and examples of good student work, to enable teachers to assess all kinds of student work. The tool helps teachers practice their assessment skills by providing samples of ideal student work for them to review. Instructors can compare the work of their students to an example of ideal student work. This offers teachers an easier way to determine whether their students' work meets the goals of a certain lesson plan, and where students' performance level is compared to other students in a particular grade.
JBP allows teachers to post their strategies and instructional plans to a central repository, where they undergo a rigorous online review process. If the submission meets the approval of a designated committee, such as other teachers or curriculum advisors, then the lesson is included in a database of best practices for use by other teachers. The online review process enables teachers to understand what elements are necessary to create effective lesson plans, which helps them refine their teaching methods. IBM, White Plains, NY, (914) 642-5407, www.ibm.com.Two enhancements to the IBM Learning Village set of Internet-based applications for educators, the Authentic Assessment Tool (AAT) and Jurying/Best Practices (JBP), will make it easier for K-12 teachers and administrators to create rich learning environments. These tools are designed to increase collaboration and accountability while promoting uniform standards. The AAT allows teachers to check all types of student work, from compositions to mathematical word problems, against defined state and district standards. JBP allows teachers to work collaboratively to develop and share successful lesson plans and teaching activities, and aids in the development of teaching methods.
AAT uses Rubrics and Benchmarks, which include desired characteristics and examples of good student work, to enable teachers to assess all kinds of student work. The tool helps teachers practice their assessment skills by providing samples of ideal student work for them to review. Instructors can compare the work of their students to an example of ideal student work. This offers teachers an easier way to determine whether their students' work meets the goals of a certain lesson plan, and where students' performance level is compared to other students in a particular grade.
JBP allows teachers to post their strategies and instructional plans to a central repository, where they undergo a rigorous online review process. If the submission meets the approval of a designated committee, such as other teachers or curriculum advisors, then the lesson is included in a database of best practices for use by other teachers. The online review process enables teachers to understand what elements are necessary to create effective lesson plans, which helps them refine their teaching methods. IBM, White Plains, NY, (914) 642-5407, www.ibm.com.