Problem-solving observation

Observe how students solve a nonroutine problem.

Preservice teachers will:

1. Observe how students work through a "problem-solving" problem. Test your problem on:
   • A student with low prior knowledge
   • A student with high prior knowledge
2. Write a paper summary of observations for the instructor and the cooperating teacher.
   1. Include artifacts of student work. Pictures work well.
   2. Summarize each observation
   3. Highlight differences and similarities
   4. Reflection: What did you learn? What would you improve next time?
3. Present a summary of observations for our class during the final exam time.
   • (optional) Hide which student is high/low prior knowledge, then reveal at end

Observation protocol

• Approximate time: 15-20 minutes.
• First 5 minutes, may only answer clarifying questions. It may help to ask the students to "think aloud".
• Next 5 minutes, may only use prepared scaffolds (questions, hints, or extensions).
• Remaining time, may help any way you wish.

Other considerations:

• Goal is not for student to solve problem. Instead goal is to see how students tackle non-routine problem.
• Inform the student about the goal and the observation protocol. (Recommend no erasing to have a full record of attempts.)
• What information will you record?
• How will you record information?
• Focus on solution strategies and attempts (both correct or incorrect).
• Avoid personal information about students in the summaries.

Due: Final exam time

Scoring guide

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