And, here are my data screenshots. The first is of my word counts and the second is interpretation or influence with evidence:
I was really saddened that both of my responses were considered to be not statistically significant because I really believe that VTS has benefitted my class. As I mentioned in my last post, there are outside factors that may have affected my data, like the kind of day students were having and the fact that I was missing three kids from my sample. Even though I am a hardcore believer in science, I still think that I have seen benefit from doing VTS discussions and I definitely plan to continue them each week. My students really look forward to them and I enjoy facilitating.
I to had the same hopes, but received the not statistically significant and I also believe that VTS affected each of my students.
ReplyDeleteDon't be discouraged! As I mentioned during our first class meeting, statistically significant results in 5 VTS lessons is an unreal expectation, although subtle changes (that may not be captured by the rubric) can be witnessed in that short period of time. It sounds like you did see gains. I think if you continue to teach with VTS regularly, by school year's end you could near that statistically significant benchmark. If you have the luxury of working with the same students for another year, I believe you'll definitely see significant change. You are wise to recognize that we are talking about young people, not machines. Good days, bad days, and life events are certainly going to exercise their influence on attitudes and performance. It is possible, also, that word count is a poor measuring devise for older students whose vocabulary allows for more accurate and concise comments. Growth in vocabulary and conceptualization are not on the rubric (and for older students, perhaps they should be!) I'm impressed that your students want to continue with VTS discussions. That tells me they appreciate the rigorous experience you are providing for them. Keep up the good work! I truly believe they are on their way!
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