Observation Protocol for Assessment Tool with Best Practices for Field

Abstract

Outreach programs like Environmental Field Days or Water Festivals are often exciting and memorable experiences for children. They include a direct, hands-on connection between students and the science of their environment. The problem is that these events are not always productive educational opportunities. Focused observation and assessment are needed to ensure increased effectiveness and the best possible outcomes. The Best Practices for Field Days (BPFD) Assessment Tool provides systematic observation methods to evaluate the success of Field Days in meeting intended educational outcomes. The Tool measures and assesses the conditions available for learning to take place in an informal science setting. It is composed of two parts: the Individual Assessment Tool to evaluate stations throughout the day and the Holistic Assessment Tool to evaluate the day and incorporate the Individual Assessment Tool information. The poster will describe the development of the tool, testing and the reliability/validity studies conducted on the tool. Copies of the tool will be available to review.