Instructors', Teachers' and Principals' Comments
Feedback is routinely sought by asking various stakeholders to respond to evaluative questionnaires at the conclusion of the year's QuickSmart program in their schools. Some comments by instructors, teachers and principals are reproduced below.
"The children loved QuickSmart. They really enjoyed the instant graph evaluations of how fast and how many correct they had. Great tool for building on what children already know." [QuickSmart instructor, 2003]
"The majority of QuickSmart students achieved fantastic academic results, some advancing three bands in the Basic Skills tests. In-class assessments showed marked improvements. Learning Group Teachers noted amazing differences in self-esteem and the willingness to 'have a go' from students previously unwilling to participate in group activities." [QuickSmart instructor, 2005]
"In a way it's been a Godsend, because it allows children to have their needs met in a way that we can't always provide in the classroom." [Classroom teacher, 2003]
"Overall, children have shown good improvement in confidence and risk taking. They work with more confidence within groups and during individual work. Timed activities and assessments - this area in particular has shown improvement as the children are familiar with working against the clock." [Classroom teacher, 2005]
"The QuickSmart program has many benefits that can be offered to students to improve their literacy and numeracy skills. In addition, students in this program also experience a tremendous growth in self-esteem." [Special Education Coordinator, 2004]
"Prior to QuickSmart children who have missed out on skills and knowledge have displayed low self-esteem and self-confidence and no risk taking skills. Following QuickSmart, they become confident to take risks and see a more balanced equation between mistakes and progress. They learn to learn."[ Special Education Coordinator, 2005]
"I've used a number of intervention programs and I think the beauty of QuickSmart is that it works with a computer which monitors student's progress really carefully. It gives students a lot of feedback." [Principal, 2003]
"Children are always keen to go to QuickSmart. Parents note children talking about their work in the program. Teacher feedback has been very positive." [Principal, 2006]
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