Alternative Assessment: The Tools of the Trade AS-401
Examine systematic ways to collect data along a continuum of learner progress by identifying the tools of assessment. Participants will learn when to use alternative forms of assessment and how to use various assessment strategies such as portfolios, structured observations, checklists, and extended responses. This experience will provide a comprehensive overview of each strategy and an opportunity for teachers to participate in a specific "homework" assignment related to alternative assessment.
[GC PS SD]
Ruth Loring

The Art of Creating Rubrics AS-202
Design rubrics as indicators of student performance along a continuum toward mastery of instruction goals, objectives, and standards and as guidelines for student self-assessment and instructional decision making. Participants will review various types of rubrics, explore the process of creating rubrics, and have opportunities to design rubrics related to their content areas.
[GC PS SD]
Ruth Loring

Designing Effective Structured Observations AS-203
Use structured observations to focus on students' ability to apply skills and knowledge in real-world situations. Participants will learn how to identify the critical components of an observation, how to design an effective model for observation, and how to maintain objectivity throughout the observation process. An opportunity for participants to assess a student through observation will be provided. Implications for use as an assessment tool will be explored.
[GC PS SD]
Ruth Loring

Reteaching—Student Success the Second Time Around AS-204
Increase the success potential for all students by effectively using a variety of teaching and learning strategies that foster active engagement in the learning process. For those students who perform below standards on an ongoing basis, reteaching strategies will be highlighted. The goal of "getting it across the second time around" is to empower students with learning-to-learn skills that will take advantage of their strengths and draw their attention to the learning habits that may be hindering their success.
[GC PS SD]
Ruth Loring

But We Have to Give Them a Grade AS-205
Recognize the distinction between assessment and evaluation. Participants will learn how to determine when each is appropriate for the particular instructional purpose. They will also learn how to evaluate and assign grades based on portfolios and other alternative forms of assessment. Participants will discuss various issues related to implementing alternative assessment systems and explore solutions to overcoming stated obstacles.
[GC PS SD]
Ruth Loring

A Better Way to Evaluate Tech Prep/School-to-Work Programs AS-206
Are students interested in what they are taught? Are teachers using teaching methods that optimize student performance? Are local business and industry actively involved in Tech Prep/School-to-Work programs? Increasing importance is being placed on the evaluation of Tech Prep and School-to-Work programs. Administrators need to know what students, educators, and employers understand about the objectives of Tech Prep and School-to-Work initiatives. The focus of this workshop is to provide participants with an effective approach to evaluating current programs. Data from the Tech Prep/School-to-Work Index and Improvement Program, a collaboration between CORD and The Gallup Organization, will be shared. [AL]
David Bond, Kippy Cooper