ALEKS - Assessment and Learning

Implementation Strategies

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View a selection of implementation strategies from educators who are successfully using ALEKS to achieve dramatic learning outcomes. 

Wood River Middle School, Blaine School District
Hailey, ID

Grade(s): 6 - 8
Scenario: Computer Lab, Computers in Classroom, Home Access
Purpose: ESL Students, Supplement, Improve State Test Scores, At-Risk Students
ALEKS Portion of Curriculum: 20%
Time Spent in ALEKS: 1 hour per week; 12 hours per term
ALEKS Course: Middle School Math Course 2, Pre-Algebra

Tryntje Van Slyke, ESL Teacher
All of my English Language Learners (primarily Spanish speaking) math classes use ALEKS. The program offers the student a choice of language, Spanish or English and students are able to learn content without language limiting their access to the content. Students also have a choice to work on a variety of topics they might not have the opportunity to see in class. My students who worked diligently with this program grew significantly on their state test.


Scenario

What challenges did the class or school face in math prior to using ALEKS?
We had low state test scores.

How many days per week is class time dedicated to ALEKS?
2 days per week.

What is the average length of a class period when ALEKS is used?
30 minutes.


Implementation

How do you implement ALEKS?
ALEKS is used primarily as a supplement to my regular class time.

Do you cover ALEKS concepts in a particular order?
No.

How often are students required or encouraged to work on ALEKS at home?
As often as they can.

How do you cultivate parental involvement and support for ALEKS?
During parent-teacher conferences, parents are introduced to ALEKS by their student.


Grading

Is ALEKS assigned to your students as all or part of their homework responsibilities? If so, what part of the total homework load is it?
No.

How do you incorporate ALEKS into your grading system?
It is a participation grade and they get the grade they earn.

Do you require students to make regular amounts of progress in ALEKS?
I encourage students to complete topics and master topics, not just jump around.


Learning Outcomes

Since using ALEKS, please describe the learning outcomes or progress you have seen.
Students are very competitive about their pie score. They are challenging each other get the most points.


Best Practices

Are there any best practices you would like to share with other teachers implementing ALEKS?
Plan for consistency, have clear expectations, let students know you check their progress, and talk to them about their progress.