Wit & Wisdom in Sync - Provide Student Feedback

The combination of ongoing formal and informal assessments in Wit & Wisdom in Sync™ gives teachers ample information to monitor student progress—and then to provide targeted, scaffolded instruction as needed.

Distance learning arrangements can offer some advantages over in-person learning. In an online environment, teachers may find it easier to schedule and engage in one-on-one conferences with students or to meet with small groups. Some Group A/Group B schedules have built in a no-class Friday; teachers can devote this day to checking in with students and providing feedback.

Online communication platforms may make it easier for students to submit work and for teachers to provide specific feedback on this work. In providing feedback, it's helpful to be specific about what students did or did not do in response to a given task; it's unhelpful to provide general feedback about how students are doing. Similarly, it can be helpful to provide feedback that is focused on the specific elements of writing that are being taught at that point in the module; it's better to explain feedback and tie it to specific points of instruction. In this way, written feedback can take the form of a conversation with students.

Online learning also presents challenges. When students learn at a distance, teachers cannot easily look over their shoulder or do a quick scan of the room to assess engagement and understanding. But students can help here. Self-assessment checklists or peer review can involve students in evaluating their own learning. Reflections at the end of online lessons can offer another quick check for teachers. Using the Chat, polling, or other interactive features during online lessons can offer a quick informal assessment.

In times of distance learning, engaging families and caregivers is especially important. Teachers can offer specific suggestions for how families and caregivers can support learning at home.

Teachers may want to schedule weekly office hours for students and families or caregivers. Students who need extra help or have questions can "stop by" during these scheduled blocks of optional meeting time.