Theoretical framework and complementary work in NEWTON…. What’s new?

The theoretical framework and complementary work plan represent a guide for all partners involved in piloting. We have included the main steps to be followed to gather relevant data from each pilot, regardless of the type, size or nature of the pilot. The work plan starts with clarifications on the terms we use (small-scale pilot, large scale-pilot, direct learning, indirect learning etc.) and with the presentation of the main objectives and methodology of pedagogical assessment.  The main roles and responsibilities are established to ensure that all activities are coordinated and performed in alignment with the pedagogical assessment objectives. All participants in the pilots will be assigned a specific role and associated responsibilities. The work plan then presents the different phases and activities that will take place during the assessment and underlines the importance of a strong relationship with the partner institution that will host NEWTON pilots. Teachers are active partners in the pedagogical assessment and they will be involved in every step of this process.

Finally, the proposed methodology considers the support of a “Pedagogical Assessment Committee”, which is a group of NEWTON experts who will act as a guide, partner and critical friend to all NEWTON pilot leaders, ensuring that the assessments undertaken in each pilot study are in line with the overarching strategy set out in the methodology and that all results are collated, analysed and shared effectively across the project. All partners will be familiarised with the methodology and key elements of the work plan will be summarised and shared with participating institutions. The first pilots using the methodology have started in February 2018 in Ireland. They have taken on board the guidelines and have designed an assessment process aligned with the proposed approach.

Main Points

• Ensure close cooperation with schools and teachers. In addition, make them understand:
  • What the project is about
  • What is their role in the pilot
• Familiarize the team with the assessment tools and ask researchers to make a very precise planning for the evaluation part of the pilot
• Use templates for standard reporting
• Analyze your results and share you lessons learnt, communicate, recommend, publish, …. make others benefit from your learnings
• Keep a close contact with PAC at any time (virtual support)

We are very excited about the theoretical framework. Stay tuned for more info!