In 1997 research scientist Norman L. Webb developed a process and criteria for systematically analyzing the alignment between standards and standardized assessments. Since then the process and criteria have demonstrated application to reviewing curricular alignment as well. This body of work offers the Depth of Knowledge (DOK) model employed to analyze the cognitive expectations demanded by standards, curricular activities, and assessment tasks: Recall & Reproduction, Working with Skills & Concepts, Short-term Strategic Thinking, and Extended Strategic Thinking. Each grouping of tasks reflects a different level of cognitive expectation, or depth of knowledge, required to complete the task. Webb’s DOK is preferred by The Common Core Institute and the Center for College & Career Readiness. The Common Core Institute has made available a freely downloadable Guide for Using Webb’s Depth of Knowledge model. The guide consolidates numerous tools educators use to implement the model for curriculum and assessment. It also compares Webb’s DOK with Bloom’s Revised Taxonomy.
Each month we publish blogs and several newsletters full of
digital learning, funding, professional growth, social media, and STEM
resources. Below are items from our blogs and newsletters that educators turned
to the most in 2018.
The nonprofit Khan Academy has launched Khan Academy Kids for early learners (aged 2–5). The education app includes thousands of original activities, books, videos, and lessons, and combines subjects such as math and reading with creative activities.
The Botball Educational Robotics Program engages middle school and high school students in a team-oriented robotics competition and serves as a way to meet the Next Generation Science and Common Core Standards.