Assessment 1 Hattie

John Hattie studied schools to find what sort of factors in schools had an effect on learning. He ascertained that if one put together reliable data based on effective research then this would inform debate and direction in determining what measures schools should adopt to improve learning.
When looking at the evidence as to what is effective in schools he found that certain features in teaching were more effective than others. Two of the highly influential factors are "direct instruction" and "feedback".

By direct instruction Hattie outlined an Active Teaching Model which included certain features. These features included elements of: review, showing how, individual work and practice and checking of work.

I think these are useful tools to keep in mind when teaching. In history lessons I generally tell some sort of story about the topic. In history class this could be a biography or details of what led up to certain historical events. I find it useful to have the students review this story the next day by retelling the story as a group. Out of this will arise questions and discussion. The students are then given a task to work on either individually or in small groups. When the tasks are finished I usually check their books to see that they are up to date. When these elements are covered I find that a rhythm is created in the classroom which enhances learning.
Feedback is essential according to Hattie and can take different forms. I find it very useful to let a student know where they are doing well and to specify exactly what is working well rather than leaving it as a general statement, "you have completed good work." Specifying the precise nature of what makes the work "good" helps the student to build confidence and also see the broader picture of where they are going. The positive feedback
should highlight specific details that work rather than simply being praise without explanation.
Reflection is a further necessary element outlined by Hattie and it is important to make this a regular part on the teaching routine.
Hattie's ideas are important to further the general debate over what works effectively in teaching.

References:
www.geoffpetty.com/research.html
www.acer.edu.au/workshops/documentsHattieslides.pdf