Web Alignment Tool

This past week I spent with Dr. Ann Benson participating in a Technology Centers That Work Technical Assistance Visit. TCTW is a program of SREB. Currently, Oklahoma's TCTW initiative includes 12 technology center districts participating in this initiative with that number expected to grow.

I have to preface that the experience was invaluable and will translate nicely to the Tech Prep Review and Improvement Process that will begin later this month.

During our classroom observation time we were given a Web Alignment Tool, a product of the Wisconsin Center for Education Research.

The tool gives 4 areas in which to observe classroom questions and asses at which level the instructor is engaged the students. The levels get into recall, skill & concept, strategic thinking, and extended thinking.

It helps guide your observation be letting you plot what types of verbs the instructor is using. Are they asking who, what, when, where and why questions (Level !: Recall) or are they asking students to analyze and synthesize (Level 4: Extended Thinking)

It's a great tool to use and share.

GuidanceFest 2008

GuidanceFest is an opportunity to learn about the CareerTech System and where we are headed in the future. Speakers will talk about the impact of the programs to courses movement, how CareerTech aligns with Oklahoma’s Promise, and many more topics valuable to you as an education professional.

To learn more and to sign up for an event in your area, please go to http://www.okcareertech.org/techprep/guidancefest.htm

Pass this to your friends and co-workers. We look forward to seeing you there!!

Career Cluster Inst

Find out what is new, learn from best practices, and discover innovative strategies for implementing and integrating Career Clusters and Pathways successfully.

June 16-18, 2008

Strand A: Career Clusters as a Model for Collaboration
This strand is designed for state/regional system leaders of education, workforce development, economic development, CTE, and post secondary systems

Strand B: Career Clusters as a Tool for School Reform & Improvement
This strand is designed for district/system administrators, counselors and general education teachers

Strand C: Implementing the Career Clusters Model – Issues & Ideas
This strand is designed for state/district administrators and teachers

Strand D: Career Cluster-Specific Instruction & Implementation
This strand is designed for state/district administrators and teachers

Register online at www.careerclusters.org
Deadline is May 2, 2008

Make your hotel reservations at www.careerclusters.org or call 1-866-469-5475 and request the Career Clusters Institute room block to be assured the special room rate of $129.00 plus tax per night. At the time of your lodging reservation, you will be charged a first night’s deposit. This deposit is refundable up to 72 hours before your reservation is to begin.
Deadline is May 2, 2008