Performance Learning. Not sure why I came up with this particular name. I think it followed from using “practice” for our work, and as such, it seemed natural to call our assessments “performances.” We practice. We perform.

The “concept” of the approach is quite simple. I present performance opportunities to the kids, tasks designed for them to demonstrate achievement with our grade-level priority standards. They “perform” and get feedback. They get a marker: 3=hit the target, 2=near miss, 1=far miss. When they miss the target, they get descriptive, actionable feedback that seeks to answer two questions for the learner:

Why did I miss the target?

What can I do better/differently next time?

Next time. That is the key to the Performance approach. There is a “forever” next time, always a possibility to do better. Sometimes it is simply making corrections to a “near miss” or completely redoing a “far miss.” I want there to be a next time, for I believe that is where/when learning happens–responding to feedback. So, sometimes, I ask the kids to perform with minimum prep. It’s almost a ready-or-not approach. Sounds unfair, and if it were a traditional classroom, it most certainly would be, but in this context, they and I know that there will be feedback, that there will be a next time–maybe many next times.

Yes, many next times. If each “time,” is indeed an opportunity to learn, then why would I limit the number of times a kid could learn? Unlike traditional assessments, which let the pieces fall where they may after a test, Performances in my class are predicated on getting everyone to a 3. But wait, is that fair to the other kids who achieved a 3 the first time? Why isn’t it fair? All that a kid earning a 3 sooner than another demonstrates is something that we all know but generally fail to put into practice: kids learn at different rates. We know this. In the Project 180 classroom, I practice this. In the Project 180 classroom learning is not a competition, it’s a mission.

It’s not perfect. I’m sure–I live as if–there’s another better around the bend. And so, as always, I will give chase to improve my kids’ learning experiences, to make things possible.

Possible. That’s the mission.

Today’s Trail

Along today’s trail we will experience…

…connecting through Smiles and Frowns.

…continuing/completing our Methods of Elaboration Performance.

…exploring selected media for our Truth Projects.

…reflecting in our Journey Journals.

…hearing a Sappy Sy Rhyme.

Happy Thursday, all.

Do. Reflect. Do Better.