More CaseNEX case studies
A CaseNEX study:
Roads to Reform: Freedom Area High School, USA
Context:
In the second year of the CFF grant, Freedom Area High School has almost achieved a one-to-one ratio of students to computers. Their focus on Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships has come to life through a school-wide infusion of technology. As they continue to push forward, professional development, assessment, and teacher collaboration have increasing importance.
Case studies such as this one are “slices of life” that help educators develop the problem-solving skills needed to support student success in today’s complex, fast-paced world.
The CaseNEX model is used to support a deeper understanding of some of the key issues linked with the education reform process in this case study.
The focus for technology and school reform in this school was in the following areas:
- Cooperative learning
- Gifted education
- Science
- Social studies
- Technology
What is the CaseNEX model?
CaseNEX offers online methods that apply to everyday professional situations educators encounter. The case-analysis algorithm allows teachers to approach problems with confidence by addressing five problem-solving steps to inform their decision making.
The five steps include:
- Identifying the issue
- Understanding different perspectives
- Linking knowledge with issue identified
- Proposing actions
- Forecasting consequences
This methodology can be used in a face to face workshop session or online exploration.
Studies have demonstrated that teachers who participate in the CaseNEX model of exploration are better in identifying problems, designing educational interventions to address them, and evaluating the effects of their teaching.
Some questions/discussions which are stimulated by this case study:
- What actions both at school and district level administrators need to be taken to set ambitions and expectations for schools?
- What are some of the consequences of setting expectations?
- What are the critical steps to sustain the reform process?
- How and what is the perspective of stakeholders important in any reform process?
- What are some of the challenges faced by schools in the school improvement process?
Some questions to support deep analysis using this case study:
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What challenges might the teachers encounter as they attempt to implement technology-supported project-based learning in a standards-based environment? (Issues) |
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How might community members feel about both the increased use of technology and project-based learning at Freedom? How might their past experiences with the school inform their views? (Perspective) |
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In general, what types of knowledge do the teachers need in order to be able to implement technology supported project-based learning? (Knowledge) |
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Now that they have the new programs in place, what actions will the Freedom administrators and teachers need to take to keep the process going? (Action) |
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What lessons can be learned from Freedom High School's experience of the change process, particularly as it relates to the implementation of project-based learning through the use of technology? (Consequences) |
Resources
CaseNEX
Area of Innovation
This case study focuses on the highlighted areas below.
