thereNow Innovative Technology for Classroom Observation R. Shawn Edmondson, Ph.D. CEO, thereNow LLC R. Shawn Edmondson, Ph.D. CEO, thereNow LLC
Why classroom observation? The reliability and validity of self-report data on teacher practice is questionable. (Mayer, 1999) Observation is the gold standard. (Rowann & Correnti, 2009) Observation has been a measurement tool in education for 30+ years. (Gage & Needels, 1989)
Challenges to classroom observation Observation requires either trained observers or videographers. Therefore, observation is extremely expensive. Sampling reduces the expense... But the extreme variability of teaching activities requires impractical sampling rates. (Rowan & Correnti, 2009)
Using technology for classroom observation: key issues Privacy, legality, security, psychology of observation Hardware: portable, easy, unobtrusive, affordable Networking: bandwidth, IT coordination Video coding and annotation tools Video management: security, storage, dissemination
IRIS Connect Developed via IES Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant. Remote, synchronous observation 360° pan, floor-to-ceiling tilt, 48x zoom Adjustable, collapsable stand 2 wireless microphones; 2-way communication Web application: coding, annotation, sharing
Where is IRIS Connect? 95 schools 36 school districts 10 universities 3 countries: USA, UK, China 4 large research studies 20+ pending grant applications that include IRIS Connect
Use Case: University of Michigan Institute for Social Research 14 IRIS Connect systems; 2 year study Atlanta, GA and New York City Will capture videos from 1,800 classrooms
IRIS Connect Demonstration Video
What’s Next? Contact: R. Shawn Edmondson, Ph.D. CEO, thereNow LLC