Discovery Session—Elements of Effective Instruction: A Framework for Fostering Student Engagement

After a year full of experimentation with different modes of learning—including every possible combination of synchronous, asynchronous, virtual, and in-person environments—we’ve learned that, no matter the format, impactful instructional practices remain at the heart of student engagement. Join us as we reflect on a year of lessons learned, assess our own instructional strengths and needs, and explore resources, tools, and strategies to re-engage our students in their learning.

While this session continues to build upon concepts introduced in our January session, participants don’t need to have attended it to join and find value in this workshop. This workshop will be highly interactive: teachers will apply concepts directly to their practice while administrators and instructional leaders will consider how to build systems and structures that support effective engagement for all learners. Participants will also choose focus areas from the five Elements of Effective Instruction:

1. Safe and supportive learning environments

2. Clear, shared outcomes, including essential learnings, transferable skills, and success criteria

3. Varied content, process, and product to meet student needs and provide choice

4. Practice and formative feedback

5. Complex thinking and transfer through interdisciplinary assessments and problem solving

Session Outcomes

• Reflect on our year of learning  about how to adapt to new and divergent instructional models

• Self-assess personal strengths and areas for growth related to the Elements of Effective Instruction

• Explore the Elements of Effective Instruction and related resources

• Plan to implement one strategy, tool, or routine in your role

• Collaborate with colleagues to strengthen your implementation plan

Agenda

1. Welcome and opening

2. Agenda and norms

3. Introduction to the Elements of Effective Instruction

4. Self-assessment and setting goals

5. Explore resources and plan for implementation

6. Quickfire feedback on implementation plans

7. Closing and session feedback

Presenters
Don Weafer, Senior Associate, Great Schools Partnership
Kate Gardoqui, Senior Associate, Great Schools Partnership

What Are Discovery Sessions?
Discovery sessions are virtual opportunities to discover and explore topics or issues that are important to you, your school, or your community. All individuals are welcome to participate.

Date: Tuesday, March 23, 1:00-4:00 PM EST
Where: Virtual, via zoom
Cost: $125/person
Registration Closes: Friday, March 19, 2021