Learning Bridges is a synthesis system for combining state curricular standards with research-based, instructional practices. Based on McREL’s meta-analyses of thousands of studies on the correlation between student achievement and teacher instructional practices, this company has translated North Carolina’s Standard Course of Study in English/Language Arts (K-12) and Mathematics (K-12) into instructional practices that will garner the largest size effect in terms of student achievement. Learning Bridges not only focuses on Marzano’s nine instructional practices but also links best practices to brain-based research and learning modalities. Additionally, the company provides on-line professional development courses in support of these instructional practices. A Parent Activity Portal links curricular objectives with interactive tasks for parent and child.
Learning Bridges’ organizational symbol depicts two figures supporting – in a free-standing manner – an umbrella or archway. There is perfect symmetry in this symbol, denoting the organization’s comprehensive services. Two distinct colors are seamlessly joined in the archway to represent the bridge between instruction and student achievement. The simplicity of the symbol is somewhat paradoxical. On the one hand, the tools are user-friendly and provide opportunities for immediate implementation. Conversely, there is great complexity in the thought processes surrounding the products.
Beth,
ReplyDeleteLearning Bridges sounds terrific! Your interpretation of the symbol and explanation of the program are informative and concise.
Do you think the symbol could also represent the connection between the researchers and the teachers? Also, could it be symbolic of the students also informing the researchers? Could it symbolize that we are all each others' teachers and each others' students?
Great symbol. One can see from the symbol what the company is about. Good marketing I guess. I am curious if this service is an expensive one. How is it used in your schools? Do you have any results to show it's effectiveness?
ReplyDeleteVery nice analysis, Beth. When I look at the symbol I see that people (students, teachers) are the foundation of what they are about and their program builds a bridge of connection between them that enables learning. Very nice.
ReplyDeleteI love the work of Marzano!
ReplyDeleteShawn, Learning Bridges -- with the exception of the professional development courses -- is free to all educators in North Carolina. Over 2,000 studies were used to validate the work. It is a tremendous tool for teachers to move from instructional strategies that may be correlated to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study to those activities that are congruent. The strategies are rated S (Superior); H (High); M (Medium) for the size effect of the strategy's impact on student achievement.
ReplyDeleteIn addition to being a great symbol, that is a great name for the company as it lends itself to many interpretations.
ReplyDeleteThe bridge is a great symbol for an organization. It represents a structure that allows us to often cross over valleys. It also represents a strong physical construct that is not easily destroyed.
ReplyDeleteIn education, we face many valleys and need to pull together to build that strong foundation in order to make a difference. Great choice!