Community/Civic Engagement – L4: Living Lab Learning Library

January 30, 2025

In the Pursuit of Knowledge: Focusing on ‘Lifelong Learning’

Sergio Belich

Computer Systems Technology / NYC College of Technology

Web Programming I (Lecture) & (Laboratory)

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

The activity centers on teaching CST2309 (Introduction to Web Programming) through a structured split format, dividing the 3.5-hour class into equal parts of lecture (1¾ hours) and lab (1¾ hours). During lectures, the instructor presents course topics using overhead projectors and whiteboards, works through practical examples, and actively solicits student feedback to ensure comprehension.

The lab portion focuses on collaborative learning, where students work in groups using a shared Google document to compile course-related resources, including linked definitions and training videos. Students contribute their thoughts and questions while also creating potential exam questions. This dual approach combines traditional instruction with hands-on collaborative work to enhance the Student Learning Outcome of "Reading," specifically targeting students' abilities to interpret, evaluate, gather, and apply information from online sources.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

My goal is to create an engaging learning environment that promotes "Lifelong Learning" through a balanced approach of structured instruction and collaborative work. The primary goal is to enhance students' ability to interpret, evaluate, gather, and apply information from various online sources while fostering an interactive atmosphere that encourages students to actively participate in their learning process. This is designed to not only help students master the current course material but also develop skills and learning templates they can apply to their future academic pursuits.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

The activity will start from the second class till the end of the semester. The first day includes discussing the this new class outline to students, and setting expectations. ] It represents the core structure of the entire semester for CST2309 (Introduction to Web Programming). Each original class session (from last semesters' 3.5 hour length) is now being divided into:
Lecture portion: 1¾ hours
Lab portion: 1¾ hours
Total in-class time per session: 3½ hours

Students will spend some time outside of class reviewing and contributing to the shared resources, including adding definitions and training videos, though the specific time requirement has not been specified, the results of participation will be graded.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

The preparation needed for this activity is as follows:
Setting up shared Google documents for class readings and topics
Preparing lecture materials and practical examples
Creating overhead projector/whiteboard content
Organizing students into working groups for labs

The student instructions is as follows:
During lecture: Students are expected to engage with the material and provide feedback
During lab: Students work in groups to:
Access and contribute to shared Google documents
Add linked definitions and training videos
Share thoughts, ideas, and questions
Create potential exam questions
Collaborate with group members

This activity is relatively low-stakes, focusing on collaborative learning and continuous engagement rather than high-pressure assessment. The approach emphasizes building an "enjoyable environment to learn" where students can:
Get constant feedback
Receive multiple explanations if needed
Build on existing knowledge
Create study materials collaboratively
Develop templates for future learning

The structure is an ongoing evaluation while also leading to assessments via exams and a class project. Students' contributions will factor into their overall course performance.

Assessment: How do you assess this activity? What assessment measures do you use? Do you use a VALUE rubric? If not, how did you develop your rubric? Is your course part of the college-wide general education assessment initiative?

Assessment Components:
Use VALUE rubric specifically focused on reading
Student contributions to Google documents (20% of final grade) measured by:
1. Number of definition links added
2. Number of video links contributed
3. Number of potential exam questions provided

Implementation Details:
Continuous feedback during lectures ensures ongoing formative assessment
Google document contributions provide measurable evidence of students' ability to "interpret, evaluate, gather and apply information from various online sources"
VALUE rubric on reading provides standardized assessment criteria
The activity supports the "Lifelong Learning" student learning outcome

Integration with Broader Assessment:
Course is part of the college-wide general education assessment initiative
Will be evaluated by AIRE in Fall 2025
Uses standardized VALUE rubric for reading to align with institutional assessment frameworks

This structured assessment approach combines quantitative measures (contribution counts) with standardized evaluation criteria (VALUE rubric) while supporting broader institutional assessment goals.

Reflection: How well did this activity work in your classroom? Would you repeat it? Why or why not? What challenges did you encounter, and how did you address them? What, if anything, would you change? What did students seem to enjoy about the activity?

This activity is structured to work well in a classroom environment because:
It divides class time equally between lecture and hands-on lab work
It incorporates both traditional teaching methods and modern collaborative tools
It creates an "enjoyable environment to learn" through constant feedback and group interaction

Additional Information: Please share any additional comments and further documentation of the activity – e.g. assignment instructions, rubrics, examples of student work, etc. These can be links to pages or posts on the OpenLab.

Here is the organizational structure:

Initial Structure:
Each of the 5 groups is assigned specific sections of lecture material
Groups have primary responsibility for their assigned sections
Groups can still contribute to other sections they find important

This approach:
Ensures comprehensive coverage of all lecture material
Creates clear group responsibilities
Prevents excessive overlap in initial research
Allows for cross-section insights and contributions
Maintains flexibility for additional perspectives

For each lab session, groups would:
1. Focus primarily on their assigned sections to provide:
5 definition links
5 topic training video links
5 potential exam questions
2. Have freedom to add insights to other sections
3. Monitor and build upon other groups' contributions

This balanced structure combines focused responsibility with collaborative flexibility, helping create a comprehensive learning resource while encouraging broader engagement with all course material.

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

August 2, 2024

A Museum of Culture/ Assignment 1A: Museum Research

Jieun Yang

Architectural Technology

ARCH 2412/ Architectural Design IV

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

Part A: Understanding “What is a Museum”

Each student will read articles and/or watch videos focused on Museum design. Additionally, each student will visit a Museum in New York City, document it through photography and sketching, and answer a series of questions to catalog their observations.

A. Learn:

– Read Chapter 01: The History and Theory of the Museum Building from the book Museum Buildings: Construction and Design Manual By Christian Schittich. (see Blackboard)
– Choose one short article (see Blackboard)
– Choose one video or podcast from the below list:
– John Oliver's Last Week Tonight episode on Museums
– Freakonomics Podcast "Stealing Art is Easy. Giving It Back is Hard."

– Deliverables: For each, write a short summary and outline a series of five bullet points identifying the most meaningful takeaways. Be prepared to discuss this in class.

B. Experience:

– Visit a museum in New York from the list provided in class.
– Document your visit through photography, sketching, and diagramming.
– Consider the following questions during your visit:
a. Who are museum users? Consider both visitors and staff. How do they use and move through the museum differently?
b. How does the entry sequence work? How visible is the museum entrance from the street? What is the first thing you see and do when you enter the museum? How do you orient yourself?
c. How are the entry and exhibition spaces arranged? In a linear sequence, clustered, or arranged around a central space? Does the visitor travel from space to space directly or are there areas devoted to circulation?
d. What is displayed in the museum? How is the art/information displayed? How many different types of exhibition areas are there and how are they the same or different?
e. How many people were in the exhibition area while you were there? Was the space crowded? Approximately, what is the area of the exhibition space? What were its proportions? How tall are the ceilings? How far away did the visitors need to stand to view or interact with the works?
f. What were the lighting conditions like? Were there windows or skylights in exhibition rooms? If yes, how were they considered in the placement of the works?
g. Were the exhibition spaces ornate or simple? How does the architecture relate to the content, is there a consistency or a contrast between the two?

Deliverables: One 11×17 sheet, beautifully and thoughtfully layout of document your museum visit and observations, to Include:
– Name and location of the Museum you visited.
– Photographs, Diagrams, and sketches
– Question responses

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

The assignment focuses on how to think critically about Museum Design and develop an understanding of this building typology.

The assignment prepares students for Part B: Topic Research and Concept Development, where each student selects a research topic, reads articles, and documents important information related to that topic to develop an overall theme for their proposed museum and develop their concept.

The assignment asks the students to meet the following objectives:
– Ability to research, gather, and study information to gain an understanding of a building typology.
– Ability to research, gather, and study information to derive an informed project concept.
– Communicate ideas and information both verbally, graphically, and through writing. (Gen Ed)

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

This is the first assignment in the semester. During the first class, we watch a museum scene clip from Black Panther, discuss the topic of repatriation through current news articles, read one of the assigned readings together, and share student reflections in class.
The students are then asked to complete the rest of the homework assignments outside class time. They present their completed assignments in the second class for peer discussion and feedback.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

See the note under Timing for the preparation and instructions on this assignment.
This is a low-stakes assignment designed to be used as an icebreaker and to prepare students for the critical thinking, analysis, and documentation required for the upcoming assignments.

The assignment is assessed on the following rubric, incorporating some of the gen-ed assessment categories.

1. Ability to research, gather, and study information to derive an informed project concept (35%)
2. Ability to translate concepts into graphic visual and physical representations (40%)
3. Communicate ideas and information both verbally and through writing (10%)
4. Assignment requirements and deliverables were met (10%)
5. On-time completion (5%)

The assignment helped students think deeply about the role of a museum, its historical conception, and how it may have led to problematic pasts (such as stolen cultural objects). It also set up a discussion on how we can reimagine a museum. Students engaged in lively debates with a wide range of viewpoints. We plan to repeat this assignment/ activity in the upcoming semester.
Students enjoyed different media forms (videos and podcasts) and did not rely solely on reading. Most readings are short articles, which makes the materials accessible to the students.
I want to try the missing links method by assigning specific readings to students, having different article readers come together to teach others through summarizing their lesson, and reporting their summaries to the whole class as a group.

Student Examples on Dropbox:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/n9xxp95mpi9gmzct7y1oy/ARCH2412_Assignment-1_Examples.pdf?rlkey=yikae381871d7dwmk7vy7qjkd&dl=0

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

May 30, 2024

Peer Evaluation

Cristina Masino

Dental Hygiene

Dental Radiology Lab

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

In groups, the students did presentations to explain different scenarios for patient management while taking digital radiographs. I created a peer evaluation for the students to complete for each team.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

I aimed to achieve learning the interrelationship between critical thinking and civic engagement with the use of feedback among the students.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

The group presentations happened in the third week of the semester. During the presentations I had each student fill out the evaluation. I also gave them a few minutes after each presentation for them to gather their thoughts and complete the evaluation for each group.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

The evaluations did not need much preparation from the students. I explained to them that in order for us to grow as individuals and promote critical thinking, that honest and kind feedback is necessary. The students were very kind to each other while answering the evaluation forms while giving constructive feedback as needed.

This qualitive assignment was assessed using the critical thinking rubric. Reviewing the evaluations and discussing the feedback anonymously with the class, demonstrated how they were all receptive to what each other had to suggest. The assessment of the evaluations created an awareness of their presentations and how the other students learned from them. The evaluations also allowed them to realize how their communication skills are and what they can do to improve by comparing themselves with the other students.

The peer evaluations and assignment promoted critical thinking that led to civil engagement. It allowed the student to apply their knowledge and ability to analyze a social issue while rendering treatment for patient care. This activity worked extremely well in the class. I would repeat it every semester because of the positive impact it created. This assignment gave the students an opportunity to not only promote growth among each other, but also within themselves.

This was the assignment handed to students to complete and hand in to me:

Den1218 Group Presentation Peer Evaluation Spring 2024
Student Who is Evaluating:________________________
Group Members’ Names and the
Topic:______________________________________________

Was the assigned topic fully addressed and discussed?
Was there more information that could have been included or discussed?
Do you agree/disagree with how the group handled the management of the patient
care?
What was your favorite part of the presentation and why?
Did the presentation need improvement and what could have been done to improve?
Please list positive feedback for the group to look back on and carry with them
throughout the semester.

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

May 29, 2024

Electrification of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Area: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Electrical Distribution

Kim K. Mahase

New York City College of Technology

EET 1122

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

This assignment encourages students to explore real-world engineering challenges in a civic engagement context, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, information literacy, and teamwork. Students should aim to provide practical and well-researched solutions to the electrical distribution needs of the NYSE area.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

In this assignment, you will explore the electrified tracks running beneath the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the electrical infrastructure required to operate the NYSE securely. You will conduct research and answer critical questions related to electrical distribution systems, backup systems, voltage levels, transmission efficiency, and power requirements for the NYSE area.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

This activity was implemented near the conclusion of the semester. It occupied one classroom session. Additionally, students were allotted approximately 1.5 hours outside of class to complete the write-up.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

Step 1: Research the NYSE (Introduction)
Begin by researching and gathering information about the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
Write an introduction that provides an overview of the NYSE, its location, historical significance, and its role in the global financial market.
Include any relevant information about the electrified tracks running underneath the NYSE and their importance.

Step 2: Respond to the Following Questions
Answer the following questions based on your research and engineering knowledge:
How to make an electrical distribution system safe: Explain the key principles and measures that should be taken to ensure the safety of an electrical distribution system in an area like the NYSE.
What electrical backup systems should be employed: Describe the types of electrical backup systems that should be implemented to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the NYSE, especially in case of emergencies or power outages.
What voltage levels are best for traction power transmission: Discuss the ideal voltage levels for transmitting traction power efficiently in the electrified tracks beneath the NYSE area. Explain the reasons behind your choice.
At what distance is the most efficient transmission: Analyze and determine the optimal distance for efficient transmission of electrical power in the context of the NYSE area's electrified tracks.
How much power do you think is needed to run the NYSE: Estimate the power requirements of the NYSE to ensure its smooth operation, taking into account its size, trading volume, and the electrified tracks' power demands.

Submission Requirements:
Prepare a well-organized report that includes an introduction, answers to the questions, and any relevant diagrams or figures.
Cite your sources properly and provide references for the information used in your research.
Submit your assignment in both printed and electronic formats.
Be prepared to present your findings and engage in discussions during the class.

Step 3: Personal Reflection on Electrical Distribution
In this step, you will reflect on the concepts you've learned in the previous steps and apply them to an aspect of your own life or an example relevant to you. This reflection will help you connect the engineering principles discussed in this assignment to real-life scenarios.

Task: Choose one of the following options:

Option A: Personal Connection
Think about an aspect of your life where electrical distribution plays a significant role. It could be related to your home, workplace, or any other environment you are familiar with. Reflect on how the principles discussed in this assignment (electrical safety, backup systems, voltage levels, transmission efficiency, power requirements) could be applied to improve the electrical distribution in that context. Discuss any potential benefits or challenges.

Option B: Real-World Example
Research and find a real-world example or case study related to electrical distribution in a critical infrastructure or commercial setting (e.g., hospitals, data centers, public transportation systems). Summarize the example and explain how the engineering concepts discussed in this assignment are relevant to the success or challenges faced in that scenario.

Submission Requirements:
Write a brief reflection (approximately 300-500 words) that clearly explains your chosen option and how it relates to the electrical distribution concepts discussed in this assignment.
If you choose Option B, provide the source or reference to the real-world example you researched.
Reflect on any ethical considerations related to your chosen aspect or example.

This activity was low-stakes.

The rubric utilized was the AACU Civic Engagement VALUE Rubric.

Grading Criteria:
Depth of reflection and connection to engineering principles.
Clarity of explanation and relevance to the chosen aspect or example.
Critical thinking and insight into the application of electrical distribution concepts.
Ethical considerations and awareness demonstrated in your reflection.

Implementing this activity in my classroom was quite effective in engaging students and fostering a deeper understanding of electrical distribution systems, particularly in critical environments such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The combination of theoretical concepts and practical application provided a comprehensive learning experience for students.

I would certainly consider repeating this activity in future semesters due to its positive impact on student learning outcomes. However, there were some challenges encountered during the process. One challenge was ensuring that students grasped the complexity of electrical distribution systems and their significance in real-world contexts. To address this, I incorporated more examples and case studies to illustrate key concepts.

Additionally, managing the time allocated for the activity was crucial, especially considering the depth of research and analysis required. In future iterations, I would allocate additional time for students to delve deeper into their research and refine their analyses.

Despite these challenges, students seemed to enjoy the activity, particularly the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. They appreciated the relevance of the topic to real-world situations, such as the operation of the NYSE. Furthermore, the personal connection component added an extra layer of engagement, allowing students to relate the concepts to their own experiences.

In terms of changes, I would consider incorporating more hands-on activities or simulations to further reinforce key concepts and enhance student engagement. Overall, this activity effectively facilitated student learning and engagement, and with some adjustments, it can continue to be a valuable learning experience in future semesters.

Resources and References

To support their analysis, students are provided with academic papers and technical manuals that offer insights into electrical distribution systems and their importance in critical infrastructure settings:

"Electrical Distribution System: An Overview" by Pravin D. Bhavar and Vipul M. Darji provides a comprehensive overview of electrical distribution systems and their components.

"Emergency Power Systems for Critical Facilities: A Best Practices Approach to Improving Reliability" by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) discusses the design and implementation of emergency power systems for critical facilities.

"Electrical Distribution System and Its Importance" by Thamim Sharief and Dr. Pradipkumar Dixit delves into the significance of electrical distribution systems in various sectors.

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

May 26, 2024

Studying Linear and Exponential Growth Models using General Education Learning Goals.

Lili Grigorian

Mathematics/ NYC College of Technology, CUNY

MAT1190 Quantitative Reasoning

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

This project has five parts:

Part I:
Students will be asked to record a 5–10-minute video that describes linear and exponential growth and a scenario from their everyday life which they believe can be modeled by linear and/or exponential growth. Including a picture/description/video.

Part II:
Students will learn, apply, and analyze linear and exponential growth by looking at the price of a smart phone and different options (cash, credit card, etc.) a person may buy and pay off for the smartphone.

Part III:
Students will go for a field trip to the Bank with post discussion.

Part IV:
Students will be interviewing people around them to gather information for project's reflection.

Part V:
After completing the project, students formed a view regarding linear and exponential growth and how it affects paying off the balance. They had a chance to examine, analyze, and rethink the financial choices they and people around them make, and how those choices affect them and their community. Students will have a choice to create either of the listed below with a focus on questions provided as a guide.

• Record at least a 10-minute-long video reflection.
• Write at least a 2-page-long (size 12, double spaced) written reflection.
• Present at least 10-minute-long oral presentation in class.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

This project uses various components of General Education Value rubrics that Living Lab Seminar had focused on during our meetings.

The 1st part uses Communication.
The 2nd part uses Inquiry and Analysis using Linear and Exponential Growth.
The 3rd part uses Community and Civic Engagement through Place-Based Learning and Teamwork.
The 4th part uses Integrative Learning through Gathering Information via Interviewing.
The 5th part uses Foundations and Skills for Lifelong Learning through Digital/Writing/Oral Communication.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

This project will take about 2-3 sessions of class time and 1-2 sessions of out-of-class time.

Start date: A week before linear and exponential growth models are taught.
Part I is due in 1 week from the start date. To be completed individually or in pairs.
Part II is due in 2 weeks after Part I is due. To be completed in groups during class time. (1 – 2 sessions)
Parts III and IV are due in 1 week after Part II is due. Part III to be completed in pairs or in groups. (1 session for a trip) and Part IV to be completed individually.
Part V along with Parts I, II, III, and IV in 2 weeks after Parts III and IV are due. To be completed individually.
End date: One to two weeks before semester ends.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

This project is high stakes. Students will need to have an electronic device with audio/video recording and internet access. Organization for a field trip.

The following are submission methods for each part:

Part I: Students will have a choice to upload on a platform of instructor’s choice. (Ex. Dropbox, Blackboard, etc.) or on the class channel created on YouTube.
Part II: PDF documents uploaded on a platform of instructor’s choice. (Ex. Dropbox, Blackboard, etc.)
Part III: Documents to be annotated on https://web.hypothes.is/start/ and fieldtrip will be discussed in the group chat using app of student’s choice. (Ex. googlechat, whatsapp, etc.)
Part IV: PDF documents uploaded on a platform of instructor’s choice. (Ex. Dropbox, Blackboard, etc.)
Part V: Students will have a choice to upload on a platform of instructor’s choice. (Ex. Dropbox, Blackboard, etc.) or on the class channel created on YouTube.

This project will be assessed using General Education Value rubrics mentioned earlier as well as my own rubrics I use for Mathematical computations.

I was not teaching MAT1190 this semester to implement this version of the project, but I did get a change to use a similar version during last Spring semester. It worked pretty well, and I am looking forward to being able to use this version of the project with a focus on a General Education Value rubrics. Most of my students enjoyed this project in the past since it is about smartphones that are a big part of their life. I believe my students will be even more attracted to this version, especially that one of the added components will be a field trip.

Main quote for this project:

“The more we prepare students to consider problems from multiple positions, using different approaches and strategies, the better adapted they will be to the struggle of keeping up with a fast-paced workforce.” Davidson, Cathy N., and Christina Katopodis. The New College Classroom, Harvard University Press, 2022.

Grading Policy:

Part I: 10 points. Completed individually or in pairs.
Part II: 50 points. Completed in groups during class time.
Parts III: 10 points. Completed in pairs or in groups.
Part IV: 10 points. Completed individually.
Part V: 20 points. Completed individually.

Entire Project is worth 15 % of the course grade.

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

https://openlab.citytech.cuny.edu/pcorbett-portfolio/research-and-publications/

May 24, 2024

TikTok Library Challenge

Valerie Work

English, City Tech

English Composition II (1121)

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

What: Students will collaborate in teams of 5 to create a 1-2 minute TikTok video designed to introduce new City Tech freshmen to the City Tech library and encourage them to use it.

Assignment: Your group will create a 1-2 minute TikTok video to introduce next year’s freshmen to the City Tech library AND encourage them to use the library’s resources.

Questions to Consider:
-What do you think next year’s new freshmen will most need to know about the library? Why?
-What do you think they will most WANT to know about the library, and why?
-How can you use the genre conventions of a TikTok video (or a specific sub-genre of TikTok video) to accomplish your purpose AND engage your audience?
-What is the most logical structure for your video? What will be the beginning, middle and end? How will you organize or order your material?
-What locations within the library will you show in your video, and why?
-How will you shoot the footage you need without violating library rules (i.e., you can’t make too much noise, disturb other library users, or damage property!)
-How can you divide the tasks needed to make the video in a way that is fair to all group members?
-How will you manage your time efficiently during and after the site visit so that your project is finished by the deadline?

Each group will share their video using the room’s projection system at the next class meeting ( you’ll need to upload it by then and bring the link!) The class will vote on the video it thinks will be most effective, and the winner will be shared during the first week of next semester with my 1101 students.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

-Students will be better prepared to understand the principles of multi-modal composition after having created a simple multimodal project as a group. I hope they will therefore be more engaged by the following class discussions introducing the terms, concepts and assignment for Unit 3.
-Students will feel more confident in creating a multimodal project on their own and generate stronger work if they have first made one as part of a team (scaffolding).
-Socially useful–-1101 students can be terrified of the library! I hope this will help next year.
-Supports the Gen Ed goals of Critical Thinking (primary) and Teamwork (secondary).

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

When: The library site visit will take place on the first day of Unit 3 (Multimodal Composition). The following class meeting will be an opportunity to share the videos with classmates, and we’ll then use them as a springboard to introduce the unit.

The groups are encouraged to finish their videos during the 75 minute library site visit class, and many did. In some groups, a member who arrived late or was otherwise less involved with shooting footage took responsibility for additional editing and/or uploading the video to TikTok after class.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

I made an announcement in the previous class to meet in front of the library along with a brief description of the project, and I also posted this information on Blackboard as an announcement. It's a low-stakes assignment.

All students who attend the site visit class and engage with the task will receive a classwork credit towards their classwork grade. Completion of the videos by the following class will count as a homework assignment. Students will also complete a pass/fail in-class writing assignment evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of their team’s process and final product that will count as the second day's in-class writing task.

On the whole, I would repeat the activity. The students who completed it were highly engaged and referred back to the project for the rest of the semester enthusiastically. Many commented at the end of the term that they felt the class was an excellent opportunity to develop relationships with classmates, and I felt that this activity supported that process. My students did seem to feel more comfortable approaching their own multi-modal project after successfully creating one with a team. The teams who presented their videos felt a great sense of accomplishment and enjoyed discussing their process and choices with the class. Also, some of the more low-performing students turned out to be really knowledgeable about using cell phone cameras and/or TikTok, and it gave some C students a chance to shine.

That said, the poor attendance patterns that were a part of the Spring 2024 term for many sections did significantly limit the impact, as only 10 students attended my 10 am class and 6 attended my 11:30 am class on the day of the library site visit, and some of those students were then absent the following class and missed the presentations and discussion. I initially wanted to limit the amount of information I gave about the activity in advance because I wanted the students to work through the challenge on the day of the assignment with their teams, but in retrospect, I believe I should have talked up the benefits of the project more at the previous class meeting to encourage more students to show up for it. On the other hand, I'm not sure that would have helped, as there were many other class periods during the second half of the term that were also this poorly attended.

There was a minor altercation with a library worker who became extremely irritated when she thought the students were filming her (even though they were actually filming the circulation desk sign). I suggested that the remaining teams stay away from the circulation desk, as she seemed unusually sensitive. One team was particularly disappointed that they were not able to include this area in their video. All of the other library staff seemed neutral to enthusiastic about the project, and I don't think that it disrupted operations apart from this one incident.

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

May 22, 2024

Noticing as a Means of Detailed Writing

Adin Dobkin

English

ENG1101 – Composition I

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

This is a two-class session activity, with a short homework assignment acting as a bridge. On the first day, each student is given one of three photographs from a moment in NYC history. No context is provided to the students, only the photograph itself. They're given twenty minutes to write down as many details as possible from this photograph, taking note of what is there as well as what isn't. Then, they're asked to select from those details the five that they believe best capture that image, and describe why they believe those are the most significant.

Students are then put into groups according to which photos they were given (these groups will be static throughout the semester, but students haven't yet worked in them). Together, the group selects the five details that they agree are the most significant. Next, they put those details into relation to one another. This is open, and can either be written out in paragraph form, relations can be drawn with arrows, etc.

For homework, the group's task is to collectively come up with a description, using these details, of what they believe the photograph shows. I emphasize the importance of deriving this understanding through the details, not by attempting to find the photograph.

The next class session, the photograph is displayed at the front of the classroom. The group shares their description, how they decided upon it, and any struggles they encountered along the way. Then, to each group individually, I pass them a bit of historical information about their photograph: what it actually shows. As the last part of this assignment, I ask them to reflect on any details they see anew, or anything they missed without having that proper context.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

This assignment started with an understanding that attention is something students often struggle with, particularly when reading. The most notable consequence of this is writing that doesn't include details. But I had a hunch that by using visual texts, and by describing this process that I think can be replicated in readings, students might get it.

I hope that students internalize the act of paying attention -> noticing details -> putting those details into relation to one another -> seeking an explanation for that synthesis -> reflecting on their accuracy. This assignment also works to embody a process of engaging with NYC history, working in groups to debate and synthesize details, and think about the ethics of writing.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

This assignment took place in the second and third classes of the semester, with about two hours of total time, plus maybe 30 minutes to one hour with homework.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

This is a low-stakes assignment, but a key one in embodying the process that they will hopefully use for their first major assignment. Most work went into identifying photos that weren't too obvious, were detail rich, and spoke to moments of city history. Students don't have the full picture, as it were, until the assignment is through, but each individual step is more or less intuitive and guided by instructions.

As a low-stakes assignment, this assignment is primarily participation-based. I look to see students writing as many details as possible in the time allotted, but also that they get in the habit of answering why to as great of a degree as possible.

This assignment was consistently cited by students as one of their favorites this semester, I think due to its detective-like nature, the environment it quickly brings about in groups, and in the real-world history that it engages with. For these reasons, I would repeat it, though I don't think it as readily translated to their reading assignments (but this is a far bigger problem than any one assignment).

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

May 21, 2024

LOOKING BEYOND THE OBVIOUS

JONNEL MORTLEY

DENTAL HYGIENE

Principles of Dental Hygiene Care III

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

Students are tasked with developing two case studies in their final semester (DEN 2400)on their E-Portfolio. This assignment is a precursor to what they can use for their final project . Students will use all the information gathered from a Clinic Patient and develop a case study that meets the following criteria for vulnerable population: The patient must have had no dental care in past two years or limited access to dental care. The ideal patient has no dental insurance. The patient must be from an underserved community within the Borough . The students will use the following assessments -Medical history, Social history , dental history , Intra and Extra oral examination, Dental examination , Periodontal examination , Calculus detection ,Radiographs and Intra oral photos to create a case study and develop a comprehensive care plan. They will focus specifically on the management , compliance and health outcomes for this assignment.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

The students with use Critical thinking and Ethical reasoning when developing their care plan . They will use investigative questioning to gather pertinent information to meet their vulnerable population criteria . The students with learn key strategies for managing patient outcomes when limitations are involved . Students are expected to make the correlation between access and health outcomes. Students will consider cost as a barrier to compliance and make necessary recommendations .Students will learn how to compose a case study before their final semester's E-portfolio requirements.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

This assignment can be started at any time in the Fall Semester as there are specific criteria to fulfill the assignment objectives. It will be an out of classroom assignment and students have until the end of semester to complete. This may take from 2hours – 4days to compose.

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

Students first have to first identify the ideal candidate (patient) to study. They have to complete the in clinic assessments on the patient and the case study is only completed after that patient's treatment has been completed in our dental hygiene clinic .
Students will be instructed to carefully access the patient for treatment needs. This is a high stakes activity.

The AAC & U Value Rubric will be used to evaluate. ETHICAL REASONING VALUE RUBRIC
Definition
Ethical Reasoning is reasoning about right and wrong human conduct. It requires students to be able to assess their own ethical values and the social context of problems, recognize ethical issues in a variety of settings, think about
how different ethical perspectives might be applied to ethical dilemmas, and consider the ramifications of alternative actions. Students’ ethical self-identity evolves as they practice ethical decision-making skills and learn how to describe and
analyze positions on ethical issues.
We will use a sliding scale from 0-4 .
O for a case study that does not meet the benchmark.
1 for minimally reaching objectives
2 for stating pertinent information but fails to meet all requirements
3 meets the requirements with some room for improvement
4 meets all requirements and satisfies the objectives

This assignment has not yet been adopted. It will be proposed in the Fall 2024 Semester. This assignment can prepare students to complete their Case study requirements in the E- portfolio .

This assignment is a modification of the following assignment completed in the Spring 2024 in Principles of Dental Hygiene Care IV.
The link below shows the current E-portfolio requirement https://openlab.citytech.cuny.edu/den2400sp2024/eportfolio/

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https://www.aacu.org/initiatives/value-initiative/value-rubrics

May 18, 2023

The use of annotation in reviewing class readings.

Charisse Marshall DSW, LCSW

Human Services-School of Professional Studies

HUS 1101-Introduction to Human Services

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

The use of annotation in reviewing class readings.

What is Annotation?
An annotation is a note or comment added to a text to provide explanation or criticism about a particular part of it (Dictionary.com-2023). In a diverse world, annotation allows students to explore their individual interpretations of classroom materials and assignments, in other words “what does this mean in my world?”. Annotation allows students to explore their perceptions while reviewing reading materials for classroom assignments.

Topic-The History of Advocacy in Human Services
Poverty in 1601 vs Poverty/Social Disparities in 2023
Chapter 3 Woodside, M. & McClam, T. (2019) 9th Ed.
An Introduction to human services. NY: Brooks/Cole Publishing Co.

General Education Standards explored:
Knowledge, Skills, Values, and Awareness of Diversity.

The purpose of this lesson was to expose students to the first public laws developed to aid and assist the poor and underprivileged.

-The Elizabethan Poor Laws were passed as a response to the increasing number of poor people in Great Britain in 1601.
*Making the connection between life in 1601 and modern day life in 2023. What do students think social problems were like in England in 1601 versus modern day issues (micro/macro communities)?
• Law passed as the number of poor increased.
• Compulsory taxation to raise funds to help the needy.
• Classification of dependents according to ability to work: children, the able-bodied, and the “impotent poor”.
• Responsibility for those in need was first with the family and then with the government.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

General Education Standards explored:
Knowledge, Skills, Values, and Awareness of Diversity.

The purpose of this lesson was to expose students to the first public laws developed to aid and assist the poor and underprivileged.
Students were introduced during the lesson to the following ideas:
Modern Day Movements
Public Welfare
Private Sector/Non-Profit Support Programs
The role of advocacy in human services in a modern day context.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

This is a week 4 assignment. This assignment was given after one full month of the semester in order for students to feel comfortable sharing their views. The assignment The assignment consisted of quiet reading time, completing the annotation independently and then class discussion. A total of 90 minutes. Students were very enthused, especially when cinema was incorporated such as "Bridgerton".

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

This is an interactive low stakes assignment which is used to introduce a high stakes assignment-discussion of the Final Term Paper on a social issue of the students choice. The instructor has to select the reading and any supplemental resources which will be used during the assignment (such as video clips).

Rubric-
Low Stakes Assignment-Level of Engagement
5 Points-Students Did Not pose any Questions
10 Points-Posed some questions but did not evoke discussion.
15 points-Posed Relevant questions during class discussions.
20 points-Posed 2 relevant questions which provoked discussion.

The assignment was well received. I think next time I will ask students to submit a video clip which illustrates their personal perceptions of modern day poverty.

Themes/Perceptions of Students during this lesson:
Students learned the word/term “pauperism”, explored the meaning of poverty.
Treatment of the Poor and Indigent (Public, Private, and Religious Based Social Services) in 1601.
Mental Health Services 1601 vs Mental Health Services 2023
What do you think poverty looked like in 1601?

Living General Education
Spring 2023
Charisse Marshall, DSW, LCSW
Human Services Department

The use of annotation in reviewing class readings.

General Education Standards explored:
Knowledge, Skills, Values, and Awareness of Diversity.

The purpose of this lesson was to expose students to the first public laws developed to aid and assist the poor and underprivileged.

Themes/Perceptions of Students:
Students learned the word/term “pauperism”, explored the meaning of poverty.
Treatment of the Poor and Indigent (Public, Private, and Religious Based Social Services) in 1601.
Mental Health Services 1601 vs Mental Health Services 2023
What do you think poverty looked like in 1601?

Making Modern Day Connections to cinema such as “The Crown”, “Meghan and Harry”, and “Bridgerton”.

Students were introduced during the lesson to the following ideas:
Modern Day Movements
Public Welfare
Private Sector/Non-Profit Support Programs
The role of advocacy in human services in a modern day context.

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

May 5, 2023

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge

Patricia Hickey

CityTech CUNY

English 1101 and English 1112

Activity Description: Provide a brief description of the activity

The class as a groups walked across the Brooklyn Bridge. The class did some preliminary research about the Brooklyn Bridge’s history. The students paired up. One partner made voice comments while the other took photos. The pairs chose either people, scenery or bridge structure.

Learning Goals: What do you aim to achieve with this activity?

The goals are:
1. Everyone should experience walking over the iconic Brooklyn Bridge!
2. Students learn how to hone their power of observation.
3. Students put their experience into a solid coherent paragraph.
4. Students share their experiences with their classmates.
5. Everyone sees each other in a different light. This will help establish comradery.

Timing: At what point in the lesson or semester do you use this activity? How much classroom time do you devote to it? How much out-of-class time is expected?

In the Spring semester I did this mid semester for two reasons. Firstly, the warmer weather makes the walk easier. Secondly, a change of pace is good for the mid semester slump.
The entire lesson takes about a full class and a half time. We walked during the class time .I

Logistics: What preparation is needed for this activity? What instructions do you give students? Is the activity low-stakes, high-stakes, or something else?

There was no preparation for this activity, although I was concerned if someone felt they were not capable of walking the distance. All felt fine. Before walking we did some preliminary research about the Bridge.
This was a low stakes writing lesson.

The only assessment was participation

This experience was wonderful and I most certainly will repeat this. Everyone loved the activity and I had virtually no complaints. The students loved walking and chatting with their classmates and with me. They loved the views and the feeling that it was “their Bridge” and they were not tourists.

Please share a helpful link to a pages or post on the OpenLab

Category: Community/Civic Engagement

In the Pursuit of Knowledge: Focusing on ‘Lifelong Learning’

A Museum of Culture/ Assignment 1A: Museum Research

Peer Evaluation

Electrification of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Area: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Electrical Distribution

Studying Linear and Exponential Growth Models using General Education Learning Goals.

TikTok Library Challenge

Noticing as a Means of Detailed Writing

LOOKING BEYOND THE OBVIOUS

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The OpenLab at City Tech:A place to learn, work, and share

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