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Summer 2002 Evaluations

Secondary Class - Spring 2005 Evaluations

What were three things you most appreciated about these classes?
The friendly but professional atmosphere.
The multi-media presentations of material.
The helpful attitudes.
The friendship building.

Having a diverse group of people “The Opportunity” to share.
You taking time from your summer to teach us.  Having the two different Universities collaboration model.
Keeping things hands on and useful.  Real & Fun!

1. On the syllabus--it was hard to know all the components for the assignments.  It wasn’t in every explanation (so it was confusing if you didn’t look close).
2. Some time during each new segment to share how other people have dealt with that problem.  Sometimes we focused on what our assignment was so much we didn’t have time to listen to other’s experiences that related.
3. Does every project need a reflective paper?  I felt there was great participation and open sharing of opinions.
4. Maybe just a little more clear on reflection papers for everything!  Reflections where, what should be in them.  We knew that we had reflections, but unless you read the point summary you may not know til then.
5. More insights on how inclusion can work in the middle school or high school.
6. Working/sitting with the same group members for 8 hours/day (including lunch) for two weeks became old.  Maybe if we could work with one group for a week and the technology group for one week, nerves would be better.   Maybe do some presentations as an energizer after the first week.
7. The class outline was great!!  However, a main checklist for required (hand-in) assignments would be nice to insure that all work is turned in.
8. Maybe an afternoon to go to the library, computer labs, etc. and have an evening class that day, to give out-of-toners a chance to “see” sites in Missoula.
9. Knowledge of a need to pay tuition by second day of class.
10. To explain work expectations a little more clearly in the syllabus for assignments.
11. I wish we had more time to work on group assignments.
12. I would have liked to explore the Internet more looking for AT equipment.
13. None!!!
14. Keep coaching the students who have not been in school for awhile.  I really appreciated it.  I know I still need to improve, but I was really worried about the new styles.  Thank you!!!
15. More!!
16. When equipment is needed by all to complete an assignment, we need to have more computers/printers.
17. More time to get “on line” and explore ideas would be fun!
18. More time to group with others in class besides our “home team”.
19. Maybe do behavior evaluations before you categorize groups so each group has varying backgrounds to deal with different types of people.
20. One more computer in back for icon making.
    
    

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1. Ways to get everyone more involved with the goal of the child.  All the technology and new ways to look at helping students.
2. The knowledge of some alternative communication methods and devices and where to get more information on them.  Also, new possibilities for adaptation.
3. Adaptations and use of equipment (knowing to how makes inclusion easier).
4. I’m no longer afraid of speaking in front of 15 women and Time.  Parenting issue: How to talk with parents, prepare for IEP’s (Maps and Coach).  I had a great time, thanks!
5. Circle of friends.
6. The importance of inclusion!
7. The knowledge of where to find information or the contacts when I need assistive technology.
8. The inclusion and collaboration concepts and the advancements in TA!!!!
9. How to begin the process of making kids feel included/friendships.
10. Developing and fostering friendships more.
11. I didn’t know anything (really) about AT and I can’t wait to go to school knowing what is available for students with a disability.  I’m also going to try INCLUSION, s-l-o-w-l-y!
12. Even though our students are included now, I can see where I need to do more.  Include, Include, Include.
13. Ideas to help adapt materials, etc. to actually use in my class--books, choices, communication devices.
14. All the assistive technology items to help include all our students in regular classrooms and the community.
15. We are more powerful in a group.  Change needs to start somewhere.
16. Getting back into teaching, this class has given me the confidence and empowerment I needed.  Having the ideas and knowledge for collaboration/team teaching as I start a new inclusive setting.

What are the three things that you most appreciated about these classes

1. Tell us as spent (?) teachers something that we’ve done that’s good
2. Time to work in groups
3. Possibly changing & interacting with other people, still have a main group but possibly situ. or interact with other people
4. Vary the groups throughout the week
5. More time for group work - two afternoons would have been really helpful
6. Do tell people to bring their laptops and printers
7. Relieve stress and worries early on:  Tell students to read a lot the first week and work on projects the second week.
8. Less Work (No it was good)
9. Supplies: Foam for bed, fans, flip-flops, lap-top/printer
10. Flexible due dates for assignments
11. Computers and printers
12. Not have so much work due in 2 weeksBring printers and computer
13. Foam pads on beds - fans.Lap-tops and printers.  ‘Board makers’ software from home schools.
14. I was very thankful I was with a group I could work with.  I would appreciate instructor intervention if ..
15. Make it realistically possible to finish all assignments in class Tell people ahead of time to bring laptops, computer disks, glue, scissors, a book used in class (to adapt), recommend foam egg carton for bed.

1. Hard Question!  I guess opening me up to all the technology available - so the adapt a book
2. That inclusion really can work and is best for kids
3. Dan’s message.  It was wonderful to get his view - lots to think about
4. Insight to myself
5. Co-teaching.  I am going to try it this fall.
6. No separate goals and objectivesTechnology does not have to break the bank
7. Co-teaching - looking forward to trying it the way it should be
8. The idea that inclusion is best for all students with special needs
9. Working more closely with paraprofessionals
10. The true and new (for me) co-teaching ideas The information through reads (?) of students increased ability in general ed.
11. Co-teaching
12. Task analysis - skills for adaptive equipment
13. Shifting focus to emphasis on developing social relationships for students in secondary school

1. Time to complete the assignments
2. Writing the papers were a challenge
3. The readings and reflection.  I am not comfortable in my writings and this ws the most challenging for me.
4. The dynamics of our group
5. The self assessment.  It really made me look at myself and my teams I deal with
6. How to support the kids in general and who needs lots of modifications
7. Challenging my prejudices that I realize now that I haveWorking with a group that have a wide range of personalities
8. Writing the paper APA style
9. Getting all of the reading and writing done
10. Writing papers - really out of practice
11. Lack of sleep
12. My prejudices - that I was not aware it showed
13. Working collaboratively with individuals with strong personalitieshard bed, heat in room, trying to finish all the work

1. Sleep
2. Time
3. One more assignment due the 1st week - i.e. the AT internet search
4. Computers and printers with needed software
5. People with disabilities as guest speakers
6. Aug. devices besides languageAvailable hours in the different labs.  (Switches, comp. software, aug. dev.)
7. Time to use devicesTime to complete assignmentsGuest speakers with different disabilities - very insightful
8. References for AT stuff - on sight help with students.  Where to go for what.
9. Time to do work
10. More time to see AT e.g..  10 min. didn’t do it.
11. Loved the outside speakers Terri and DanAdapting curriculum - I know its coming in the Spring, but I want more ideas for fall.  More time on practical - I like the labs, on Board maker etc.
12. More time on the MonTECH tour, More time to get to know other people besides my group
13. More time trying switches, keyboards, software, augmentative devices, More guest speakers, Sleep

1. We needed everything.  Nothing
2. ?
3. I really needed all the information
4. ?
5. Videos - I am not a video person ;
6. Breaks
7. A fewer less small group activities or switch groups occasionally to work with other groups
8. Technical reading
9. Work!! (Actually it wasn’t that bad.  Reading was time consuming)
10. Work - that is so time consuming
11. Less ‘class-time’
12. I really did appreciate the chance to learn more about writing and APA style on 5pt assignments ..  I enjoy the text and handouts ...  Less food?  ( I really enjoyed it)
13. Skip the internet search, almost everyone knows how to do this.   Just provide the web-sites.Too many small group exercises.  Rotate people in groups a bit more.

  Summer 2002 Evaluations:

WHAT IS THE MOST POWERFUL NEW IDEA OR SKILL THAT YOU ARE LEAVING WITH TODAY?

1. The most powerful concept I thought was that disability is a natural part of life. I felt the video made a very strong message. I also feel more empowered to incorporate many of the things I have learned these last two weeks. It's been a life changing experience.

I think all the collaboration strategies were helpful and I liked exposure to augmentative devices. I want to use more of this in my classroom next fall and am excited to give my students a voice. I think the most powerful new idea was of Disability being Natural concept. I thought the video made a very strong message.

2. My computer skills have definitely improved and as we know, technology is a good thing.

It was a good experience spending time with teachers as classmates. I think that I will be taking a change of perspective with me that will help to build or improve relationships with the teachers that teach the kids on my caseload.

The content in both courses were very insightful and helpful. My AT experience has been positively improved and I will use those skills. The collaboration course brought out many thoughts and ideas that will provide me with lots of brain food.

Has a teacher done a good job when students leave with more to try and more to think about than when they started. I think so. Thanks for the challenges.

3. Can't limit to one specific - glad to be 'encouraged' to use the web and exposed to some of what's available. That's a good thing.

Something probably obvious to everyone else: the emphasis or just the information about 'age appropriate' MOVE ON.... instead of reteaching 2+2 for the third year in a row. This hit a cord with me!

4. I am excited about the benefits of inclusion for everyone.

5. The most powerful new idea or skill that I am leaving with is the ability to network via video conferencing. I am excited to be part of this new exploration process.

I am also leaving with a wealth of ideas that I am planning to use in the classroom.

6. The most important skill that I am leaving with today is knowing how to develop and facilitate a collaborating team or at least knowing what one should look like.

7. There are so many. It is always nice to get new ideas that will help your program, as well as, affirm you are running a good program. I think the best idea I came away from this class with is it is just as important to spend time assessing a student's needs and ways to meet these as it is to implementing strategies discussed.

8. I liked learning the COACH and SETT approaches. I found the tools and student centered approaches to be a positive and productive use of time for all team members.

9. Collaboration techniques, learning about our style ex, avoiding, competing, etc., technology tools.

WHAT SUGGESTIONS CAN YOU GIVE US TO MAKE IT BETTER?

I think it would be helpful to introduce bigger topic areas earlier or somehow explain things sooner so things do not pile up so much at the end. Perhaps it would be good to suggest how students could pace themselves. I feel it would be ok to give the homework assignments the first day of class. I know a comment was made that you didn't want to overwhelm students but for me, it would have been helpful.

Also, the room seemed awfully crowded at times with chairs constantly bumping. Perhaps different configuration of space?

I think it would be helpful to reduce some of the work load. For instance, instead of 2 communication demonstrations how about just 1. Also, it would have been very helpful to be able to integrate the collaborative group project with the AT group project.

Another place that you can integrate some of the work load is the reflective papers on the self-assessments. How about just one paper that would cover both assessments.

The projects were well thought out and applied to our class work. I appreciated the continuity.

I haven't had any complaints or frustrations with what has been done/presented in class (doesn't include annoyance/impatience when I can't find something on the internet, get somewhere, or program a device - been there!). But not with the class, material, or the support provided. I appreciate your calm, consideration of time, willing support, and sense of humor!

It might help to switch morning/ afternoon classes. Also, it might help time wise if we could read a few of the articles before we arrive.

I am from the motto "if it isn't broke, don't fix it." I had a wonderful experience.

Switch the classes so there is more time for the technical stuff. Maybe split the classes by the week instead of trying to do both in one day.

I would have liked to have more flexibility in scheduling enabling us to have AT in the morning occasionally. I felt that Gail got the bad end of the deal because I/we often were tired at the end of the day.

Let students know the amount of work they will be expected to accomplish before they sign up for this class.

Extend time from 8:00-5:00 and allow one hour of work time.

I would have liked to have AT in the morning occasionally. I felt that Gail got the bad end of the deal because I/we often were tired at the end of the day.

Focusing on one course per week. Don’t keep the same set group all day long (our project groups). Give us a chance to work with another group in case someone is having a very bad experience. Remind the students we are focusing on our class not all of our past experiences and details about each and everyone of our students.

WHAT WERE THREE THINGS YOU MOST APPRECIATED ABOUT THESE CLASSES?

1. I really appreciated the fact that you implemented many O the taught strategies especially among yourselves during interactions. I like the way you interact with each other. I liked the fact that many of the things taught were very practical and I liked the flow of the day and the structure.

2. I appreciated the collective experience of you all. I appreciated the hands on activities. I appreciated the opportunity to hear the perspectives of others.

3. Your flexibility and understanding of individual differences and ability levels. You have made 2 very long weeks as enjoyable as possible. Organization and examples have been wonderful. I have been overwhelmed and confused but the examples and guidance have made the assignments bearable. I appreciate doing tasks that were not just "hoops" to jump through.

4. Easy question! I am so impressed and pleased with how accommodating everyone at the Institute has been. Two weeks - three credits - in my field - all applicable/useable 'stuff' - can't be beat! Reimbursed for classes????!!!! Unheard of and what a bonus. I'm a happy camper!

5. The top thing that I most appreciated about these classes is the way everybody involved (Gail, Barb, Timm, Rosemary, Leslie, Pam, John, Richard, etc) were extremely caring, understanding and helpful. No one made me feel like asking questions was bad. Thank you. The information presented was awesome. Every piece of information was relevant to teaching all students. Lastly, I was glad for the opportunity to network with other teachers, para's, specialists, etc. It was great to hear other's opinions and feelings on all the subjects we talked about during the two weeks.

6. The wealth of information presented by instructors and other students. The opportunity to apply the principles presented in class and participate in hands-on activities. The flexibility and encouragement of the instructors.

7. I appreciated learning about technology I was unfamiliar with, the laws pertaining to these materials, and how to use these new materials. I appreciate being treated like a professional and I appreciate the instructors realizing I have a life outside of school. I enjoyed meeting other educators outside the state. I appreciate feeling free to share my thoughts, questions, and ideas.

8. All of the resources that were handed out. Being able to meet other teachers outside of our district. The new techniques that I learned to do.

SPRING 2005 - SECONDARY CLASS EVALUATIONS:

Questions and Responses during class and in email questions from Secondary Class - Spring 2005

1. What would you like more of - what was your favorite assignment?

• More web reviews - systematic instruction was the most important assignment.
• More face to face classes - video conferencing discussions and lectures.
• The outcome evaluation questions were the most valuable to me - I was surprised!
• The systematic instructional program was the most valuable - it’s great for the kids and wouldn’t get done or implemented unless it was an assignment. I learned a lot about teaching from the instructional program!
• The transition planning meeting was the most valuable along with the instructional program. It was difficult to attend since I’m an elementary school teacher, but it was valuable and helped me understand what happens in high school and after high school.
• The outcome survey and the portfolio were the most valuable to me.
• The instructional program was really important - I’ve been through a lot of special classes and this is the only class that really focused on how to teach!
• The job analysis was very valuable to me as a secondary teacher. It helped me understand what you might have to teach and what a potential employer might ask.
• I was very satisfied with the course content and requirements. The information gained is very valuable to me. I really enjoyed doing the instructional plan. Seeing something you develop making positive gains with each session is a very rewarding experience for a special education teacher. Thanks for the transition planning meeting. I now have a better understanding of a transition plan that is person-centered and works for the individual.
• I really liked this class. Out of all the classes it was the one I knew the least about. It was interesting finding out about the process with special education which I don’t do.
• What are samples that others from previous classes have done? Or similar examples in terms that parents and non-professionals would understand. The most valuable assignment for me was the job skill analysis. Looking for employers in our community who will work with our school.
• I really enjoyed all the information regarding transition. Prior to taking my current job, I had not even heard of the concept. I don’t know if it wasn’t talked about 15 years ago or if it was just that I was an elementary teacher. I learned a lot and see where we can improve in that area within my school.
• I found all of the secondary information to be very helpful. Especially transition. I believe that the systematic instruction really wasn’t applicable to the class - it almost seemed like it was just added in. I do believe that it would be written down in the syllabus that you can’t do the same program in both classes.
• I think this semester (minus the technology problems earlier) was perfect and very well thought out. The assignments all had meaning and built on each other. They provided wonderful experiences and at least for me helped me build a stronger, collaborative relationship with my team here.
• I enjoyed other student comments and felt like all the assignments were valuable and of great importance. It really would help those teachers in the secondary area. I was able to share information with the high school resource teacher that was beneficial to her and the students. The portfolio was a great assignment. It not only is valuable so we keep artifacts from our program, but it is nice to go back over what I have learned in the program.

2. What would you like less of - what was your least favorite assignment?

• Less systematic instruction - we did an instructional program in the Curriculum Class and I don’t understand why we’d have to do two of them.
• I liked all the assignments and the meetings. I wouldn’t change anything.
• Confusion from the different school systems on when/if transition meetings are being held and if they’re open to teachers and others.
• All good.
• Liked them all.
• I am satisfied with the components of the course. The knowledge gained was very valuable.
• I also liked the meeting schedule and having time to work on projects. I would let students know sooner about transition meetings to prepare. I would also add to the interview questions.
• Focus on instruction and more focus on how to help the student get a job or college. We’re already doing instructional program for Gail’s class so it was redundant to do another program for this class.
• I can’t think of anything that I would change or suggest for improvement next time. My only frustration was that Lotus didn’t always work for me in this class and I am so visual. I was able to get some powerpoints the last couple of weeks, but had trouble even with that earlier.
• Instead of the instructional program, have students design a transition portfolio or a transition program addressing how all of the elements (daily living skills, employment, etc.) will be addressed throughout high school. I actually developed forms that I now use as part of each IEP.
• I would not want more face-to-face sessions. I have enjoyed having more hands on and less online, but I am able to get the work done without the pressure of a meeting.
• I liked the schedule of every other week because it allowed me more time to work on my projects, school work, and other classes. Plus it allowed for site visits for the job analysis, transition meetings, and collection of data for the instructional program.
• I don’t think any of the assignments should be cut or reduced, they were all valuable. I would love to see more classes!
• Don’t change anything.

3. What should be done differently next year - what would benefit next year’s students?

• Have directed questions on the readings.
• Reflections on readings. Too many readings in early classes. Systematic Instructional Program was important and I liked it, but it was difficult to do while teaching.
• More synchronous classes so we can have discussions and see each other.
• More frequent meetings.
• More detail on assignments.
• More discussions during classes.
• Make arrangements so everyone knows when each school district holds their transition meetings.
• I personally feel that it would be nice to have more class sessions and more in class discussions.
• Maybe make a different set of questions for students who are still in school for the outcome survey.
• What about talking about transitions going into college. What do colleges offer in terms of services and how can we help students in school prepare for the change.
• I think it would be nice to have the CuSeeMe set up to where you had class discussions about assignments. It would not be a class session but a time to meet with classmates like any other class that has a study session. This could go on in between weeks of classes. I think the format of every other week for class is enough and it does give us time to complete work.

4. Additional comments:

• I feel very privileged to be a part of the Partnerships Classes. It’s been a rewarding experience.
• This class helped me begin looking at transition plans for my high school students. It would be interesting to look at transitions from preschool to school and transitions during different phases of education. A list of available services and what they “address” in terms of transition would be nice to have for each school district.
• I enjoyed these courses and learned (or was reminded of) a lot of information.
• Overall this was one of the best classes I have had in terms of the value I have been able to apply to my work. I appreciate all the work that goes into presenting this class.
• Thanks for a terrific opportunity. It has been a real pleasure.
• I would like to thank you and Gail for an incredible experience. This program has made me a better teacher in many ways. I feel that I am now more aware of others feelings. I have strategies which have helped in many classroom situations. You and Gail have incredible knowledge and thank you for sharing that with me and all the others you have trained in this program.