Observing Dimensions of Learning in Classrooms and Schools

This book expands the use of ASCD's Dimensions of Learning (DoL) program to include not only classroom teachers but also building-level administrators who are observing and coaching teachers, central office administrators in districts that are using the DoL model as a catalyst for organizational change or restructuring, and individuals responsible for staff development. The author looks at Dimensions of Learning in the context of Peter Senge's concept of the "learning organization"--that is, an organization "where people are continually learning how to learn together." Thus, a district, school, or teacher that follows Brown's recommendations not only implements Dimensions of Learning, but also develops the ability to initiate and sustain many future innovations. Readers can see this process at work in the author's detailed case study illustrating how educators in his own school district, the Prince George's County Public Schools in Maryland, are using the Dimensions of Learning model to guide their change process. The book includes three questionnaires for evaluating the extent of the school's current use of Dimensions of Learning, a "Productive Habits of Mind" checklist for students, and several checklists for observing teachers who are using the Dimensions of Learning model in their classrooms. It also includes numerous examples of the "commendations" and "recommendations" that observers should be offering these teachers. For instance: - Commendation: "When you introduced a skill to your students, you consistently modeled its use" - Recommendation: "Simply telling students that they must use a specific skill or process often isn't effective. Please place greater emphasis on modeling skills for your students when you first present them." The author also describes how educators in his district have used selected ASCD videos to transform their teacher observation process. Note: Readers who are unfamiliar with Dimensions of Learning may want to read "A Different Kind of Classroom: Teaching with Dimensions of Learning" by Robert J. Marzano.