All Things CLASS

I took the class training and I understand the process, but i am having trouble getting an overview of content when i do an observations then I am not able to complete the 10 domains in 10 mins to code. Between transferring observation notes assigning a range and then going through the scoring process it is taking me awhile. Am i missing something or doing something i should not be? I thought the more i did the quicker i would get.

Hi Vanessa,

Can you clarify for me what you mean by transferring your observation notes?

Thanks!

Sure,  transferring my observation notes into the notes/evidence part of the coding page. the step before raging each indicator. I am trying to figure out how to get quicker, see if there are any tips with coding. There are ten domains and I am trying to figure out how to take a minute for each. Just looking for tips.

It sounds like you are giving yourself an extra step. Try doing your observation notes on the actual notes part of the coding page as you are observing. Then no transferring will be necessary. That is why using short hand and simple symbols for words is necessary when observing.  

Hello Vanessa! I am glad you pointed out. I am still trying to figure that out:) I agree that 10 minutes is not enough time. But this is what  I do, I take my notes, and sometimes you can really score in that 10 minutes, that all depends in the individual observation. However, without going to the manual to check and be sure the score is correct, can be overwhelming to do it in 10 minutes. I focus more in checking the ranges in that 10 minutes, that also helps me to give the feedback in person. Later with the manual I review my notes/ranges, to enter the final scores. It also helps me to write more detail feedback forms.

 I notice that the more observations you do, we get better/faster at taking notes. 

Gloria 

My name is Barbara I am a VPK teacher the training that I took was very informative and I learned more than I thought I would being I have been assessed  by the CLASS tool there were things that I did not know and learned that positive climate is not just having a clean and well organized room it is about how you smile at the children, take their ques and manage the room with the other children

Hi Vanessa,

       This is my second year as a Coach using the CLASS observation tool.  When I read your question, I could really relate!  Heere are some tips that have helped me gain coding in that goal of 10 minutes and in my confidence:

1. I start coding the Instructional Support section first. And then move up. That way I'm not overly tired when I get to that section.
2. I do time myself so I get a pulse for if I am overthinking. I find if I don't time myself I can get caught up in questioning what I really observed, and bias sneaks in.  I try to stick with the 10 min time frame as much as I can. But I agree it doesn't always feel like enough time.
3. I make sure to do the soft coding of behavior markers to help support my code. and I always use page 17 in the Manuel. I also then go back and read which section the code/score landed. L  M  H.  That can be affirming. 
4. I also calibrate with a colleague. or ask for my program to purchase a calibration exercise from Teachstone. Which helps build confidence.
5. I have found that over time you will observe in real time an amazing quality feedback loop or concept development etc., and you are like eureka!  I know what I am doing.  

These are a few things I have found helpful.  I am a newbie and find myself reading, watching videos, and listening to the coaching videos or podcasts on Teachstone. Those have helped me gain insight to each section which has helped me gain clarity and makes me a more reliable observer and coder. - Susan

Thank you I will look into these! I appreciate it. I am trying to also juggle with and my work. I am able to offload work, but I dot want to get behind but also want to give CLASS the attention needed. thank you for your answer!