The document summarizes observations from a site visit to a STARTALK teacher training program in 2008. It addresses content, instructional delivery, materials/technology used, assessment of learning, the learning environment, program administration, and alignment with STARTALK standards. The summary provides an overview of what was observed regarding program implementation and administration, and seeks any additional comments about the site visit.

1. Teacher Programs: Site Visit Observations 2008 STARTALK

2. The Big Picture: What We Can Observe PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION Content Instruction Materials and Technology Assessment Learning environment Course management PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION Administration Curriculum alignment with Startalk standards Program facility and institutional support Site visit

3. Content Alignment between what is taught and what is proposed to be taught Whether the topics are appropriate and relevant for participants and meet their perceived and real needs Whether content is differentiated for participants of diverse background: novice vs. experienced, linguistic and cultural backgrounds, etc.

4. Instruction Delivery and classroom interaction Lecturing vs. modeling of different instructional strategies Allowing give and take of discussions Activities Activities are purposefully organized around a central theme Participants understand both the “why” and the “how” of an activity or technique Participants are encouraged to collaborate while having the opportunity to work independently Communication Valuing participants’ input and questioning Communication occurs at all levels, from participants to participants, instructors to participants and vice versa

5. Materials and Technology Readings and materials are appropriate for participants: linguistic, pedagogical, and related to the program content Materials serve a purpose and are drawn by instructors and participants as references Materials and technology are available and easily accessible Learning and using of technological tools is integrated into program and curriculum design

6. Assessment A variety of assessment tools are used, including formative and summative Assessment requires participants to demonstrate and transfer their learning to teaching Required assignments are part of course assessment Participants can reflect on and talk about their professional growth related to the program Evidence that feedback is being incorporated into program improvement

7. Learning Environment & Course Management The physical environment and facility are comfortable for adults and conducive for learning There is a sense of learning community Time is well managed and any change is communicated ahead of time Everyone interacts in a friendly and respectful way

8. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION 1. Administration: Is efficient, organized, and effective All staff and participants’ needs are referenced and addressed 2. Curriculum Alignment with STARTALK Standards: Evidence of STARTALK Standards (templates or matrices) are implemented and referenced

9. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION 1. Program Facility and Institutional Support: The STARTALK program is being referred to or treated as a source of pride and joy, instead of a burden or trouble Evidence of institutional support and connection to the institution-at-large 2. Site Visit: Site visit is received and conducted as planned Evidence of preparation for the visit

10. Additional and Summative Comments Do you have any additional observations and comments that are not captured on the checklist? Did anything strike you as exceptional that is worth noting? In a few sentences, how would you sum up your team’s site visit observations of and experiences about the program that will be of use to STARTALK Central and to the program?

11. Thank you!