Project+Evaluation

The evaluation plan for **//Art in Action//** is based on a logic model that recognizes the power of arts-infused instructional methods and artist-teacher teams to boost both the quality of teaching in the classroom as well as student academic achievement and engagement in the learning process. The evaluation was designed by Keystone Research Corporation, and will be implemented and managed by their team throughout the project.

Teacher and teaching artist surveys, classroom observations, residency reflection forms and student test scores are being used to measure the success of **//Art in Action//**.

Who will participate in the evaluation?

 * WHAT:** Is Art in Action improving the quality of teaching?
 * HOW:** Trained observers use the __Classroom Observation and Interview Form__ (sample attached) during three classroom observations. The first observation is conducted within two weeks before a residency begins, the second observation is conducted at the midpoint of the residency, and the third observation is conducted 30-45 days after a residency has been completed. During each observation, the observer collects the lesson plan for the lesson that was observed. The quality of the lesson plan is evaluated using the Lesson Plan Assessment Form with a __Rubric for Planned Instruction__ and __Lesson Plan Checklist__. (See Artist-in-Residence Program section for samples.)
 * WHO:** A teaching artist may work with up to three classrooms during a residency. Each of these classroom teachers are asked to sign an **//Art in Action//** evaluation consent form. Of the teachers who consent to participate in the evaluation, only two are selected to serve as “test” classrooms per residency.


 * WHAT:**
 * Is **//Art in Action//** improving student achievement in Math and Reading?
 * Is **//Art in Action//** improving the quality of the classroom environment?
 * HOW:**
 * Student report card and standardized test scores are collected for each student.
 * In-class observations of student engagement and lesson plan implementation.
 * Questionnaires assessing the residency through an Assessment of Cognitive, Social, and Personal Student Development, Teacher and Artist Attitude Survey, and Program Implementation Review.
 * WHO:**
 * The administrative office of each partnering school district provides this data to Keystone Research Corporation.
 * Trained classroom observers record engagement and implementation and provide this data to Keystone Research Corporation
 * Teachers and Artists provide this data to Keystone Research Corporation by completing questionnaires online.

Evaluation Documents