Wicked Problem Project Part A

1. Educational Need - Due to several recent changes at our school, communication between the student and parent at home and the teacher are more critical to student success than ever before. We have changed the attendance policy in a way that does not penalize the student academically for absences. However, a successful non-academic deterrent to skipping has not yet been found. This has led to a dramatic increase in absenteeism among the student population that needs to be in their class seats the most. At risk students. This problem is most apparent in academically challenging required classes such as chemistry. It is my belief that improved communication with students and parents about curriculum requirements, expectations and student progress will lead to greater student success.

2. Plan - In order to meet this need I will develop a Moodle site design which is clear on curriculum requirements, student expectations and involves parents in monitoring academic progress. This will be accomplished using our class Moodle site including worksheets, tutorials, video lessons, quizzes and lab videos.

3. Logistics – This project will be implemented during the semester exam review unit for chemistry. One class section will be used for one week. Parent communications will be recorded and class exam scores will be compared to a control class in the same subject.

4. Resources - I found a number of resources supporting my plan.

http://insightu.net/educational-implementation/ - Enhancing Communication http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/869/1575 - Universal Design and Moodle http://danny-waldo.suite101.com/moodle-keeping-educators-and-parents-connected-in-the-new-age-a353820 - Keeping Educators and Parents Connected using Moodle http://bemafrau.blogs.uv.es/files/2010/12/articulo_1_moodle.pdf - Moodle as a teching Tool http://www.nsta.org/publications/news/story.aspx?id=52598 – CMS improves communication

5. Implementation -  Parents will be invited to participate in the exam review process with their students. An introductory video will introduce the parents to their student’s Moodle site and its contents. It will be explained how this directly correlates with the student’s review packet. Individual unit reviews will be produced for students to view at home. Parents will be informed of the timeline for the review and the student expectations. Parents are encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions during the review process.


6. Effectiveness- The number of parent contacts regarding students in this class period will be compared to those from other classes. Final exam scores will be compared between classes. A survey will be given to parents and students at the end of the review process to determine its impact.

7. Plans for the Future - Based on the results of the student test scores and feedback, I intend to produce an intriduction video for parents in all classes to do the same. As a member of the technology committee, I also plan in producing a video summarizing my project and results to distribute to the staff. As a school we will all have a Moodle site next year. Some teachers may choose to do what I have done.

Personal Introduction and Interests

Watch my Intro Video