To monitor an individual pupil to estimate active learning time

Aim

To monitor an individual pupil to estimate active learning time.

Evidence and reflection

Watch a chosen pupil during a teaching/learning session. Judge the times at which:

1. The pupil is ‘on task’ (i.e. actively engaged in the given task and learning objectives)

2. The pupil is doing other necessary activities related to the task (e.g. logging into a computer, fetching equipment)

3. The pupil is ‘off task’ (i.e. appears distracted or disengaged).

Calculate the total amounts and proportions of learning time in each category:

‘On-task’ time                                   [… minutes], [… %]

‘Task-management’ time             [… minutes], [… %]

‘Off-task’ time                                  [… minutes], [… %]

Extension

Are there any changes in classroom organisation or management strategies which could help to maximise active learning time?

More in this chapter

• To examine the classroom environment
• To plan resources to support specific learning activities
• To produce a classroom plan
• To evaluate routine activities to maximise time for teaching and learning
• To evaluate the variety of learning objectives, tasks and activities
• To consider the affordances and constraints of a particular piece of software
• To analyse the involvement of pupils in whole class parts of lessons
• To consider the pros and cons of group working
• To consider grouping strategies from the perspective of the pupils
• To prepare for having parents or support staff working in the classroom
• To develop information sharing systems for support staff and parents
• To consider the impact of the recent focus given to teaching about computers
• To consider the involvement of parents and carers in the classroom and school
• To consider the working with support staff