by anonymous,
Educational Research, Harvard Graduate School of Education,
After having conducted numerous observations in both informal and formal settings using several different types of observation tools, I consider the DOS tool to be one of the best that I have used. This observation tool maintains a good balance of being comprehensive yet without being overly complex. Therefore it allows for enough flexibility to conduct observations in variable settings which is typical for informal learning. This balance also reduces the amount of subjectivity that often arises amongst various observers when a tool is either too complex or too simplistic. The DOS tool allows the observer to really capture quality inquiry learning and make a distinction between meaningful opportunities for STEM learning and experiences that are fun but lacking in depth. However what I most appreciate about this tool is that in addition to capturing quality learning it also takes into consideration key aspects for ensuring a student’s emotional well-being such as student voice and the quality of the relationships amongst the students and the facilitators. I highly recommend this tool not only for educational researchers but also for teachers or facilitators that are committed to delivering quality instruction.
