Teaching Research: Using Critical Realism When Conducting Program Evaluations

• In Event: 66.057 - Roundtable Session 27
  In Roundtable Session: 66.057-12 - Teaching Educational Research

Abstract

The paper speaks of critical realism as a methodological alternative to program evaluation techniques by presenting a study that used multiple data strands (surveys, log entries and interviews), data collection techniques (triangulation- coaches, teachers & students), data analysis procedures (exploratory factor analysis, t tests, thematic coding). Results indicated that teachers valued instructional coaching as a way to increase their knowledge about and use of instructional practices including group work, the provision of student centered activities to engage students, and as a way to promote student to student discourse. Students demonstrated increased collaboration in groups and used higher- level questions. Significant difference was found pre-post supporting significant increase in teachers asking higher level questions that require students to explain their thinking.

Author

• Thomas W. Christ, University of Bridgeport