Sarah Miller

3.1 Classroom Management & Collaborative Learning

Candidates model and facilitate effective classroom management and collaborative
learning strategies to maximize teacher and student use of digital tools and
resources

1. Briefly describe the artifact and the context in which it was created. What was/were
your individual contribution(s)?
For this standard, I’m using my planning sheet for the Engaged Learning Project. This
planning sheet describes the project as it relates to authentic, engaged learning. Levels of
LoTI and Engaged Learning Indicators are addressed in the planning sheet. The project
itself is linked in the planning sheet, as well. Additionally, the students’ roles are
explained, along with strategies for classroom management. I developed the planning
sheet on my own, and I designed, developed, and implemented the project.

2. Explain how this artifact demonstrates mastery of the standard/element under which it
is placed. See the portfolio rubric and watch the videos for more details on what to
include in your reflection for this question. You must respond to each of the items on the
rubric in this question! It is VERY IMPORTANT that you address ALL of the criteria on
the rubric. This one question may need to be several paragraphs long in order to address
all of the items on the rubric.
This artifact demonstrates ways in which classroom management was used in my
classroom during a technology-rich project. I was able to model these techniques with my
student teacher, so she and I could both facilitate this multi-day project. In the artifact, I
explain how students were grouped, based on readiness level and ability level. Students
were given whole-group directions, so there were clear expectations explained to
everyone at once. To assess how students worked together, they will complete a
Reflection Assignment. In this reflection, students will rate their work ethic, along with
the work ethic of his/her partner.

3. What did you learn from completing this artifact? What would you do differently to
improve the quality of the artifact or the process involved in creating the artifact?
From this artifact, I learned first-hand how student engagement makes a significant
impact on classroom management. If the assignment is meaningful and authentic,
students become more engaged and less likely to be disruptive or off-task.

To improve the quality of this artifact in terms of classroom management, I would

implement my “Work Ethic Rubric”. I have used this concept in prior assignments, but
not in this one. This rubric is helpful when an assignment lasts throughout several days,
even into weeks. Even if the project is engaging, sometimes after a few days, students
become restless. The “Work Ethic Rubric” is a way to keep accountability in between
other grades.

4. How did the work that went into creating the artifact impact school improvement,
faculty development, or student learning? How can the impact be assessed?
This artifact impacted student learning by giving them the opportunity to engage in an
authentic learning experience in a way that also addresses the content standards. I believe
 Sarah Miller

these students have had a very limited exposure to this type of lesson, and they were
highly engaged. Because I was able to model and facilitate with my intern, she will be
able to implement similar lessons in her future classes. She has since been hired at our
school!