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Phase 4: Analyze and Reflect

The aim of the fourth phase is to analyse and reflect together on the observations from the research lesson and to derive possible options for action. This stage, often referred to simply as the evaluation session, is an important pivotal point in the process, as it is here that the newly acquired knowledge from the planning and research stages and the observations from the research lesson are transformed into insights.

Photo: LemaS-Team der Universität Potsdam

Analyze and Reflect

HINTS

  • It is a good idea to set a time limit for the evaluation session. The best discussions leave participants wanting to talk more about what they have learned. Two hours is a good guideline.
  • It is not always clear whether a learning activity is high or low. So there is no right or wrong way to create your learning activity curves. The aim is to discuss and to align your ideas and attitudes towards each learning activity as a team when you hang up the sticky notes (Knoblauch, 2019a).
  • It may be that you all agree quickly or that one person gives many options while the others agree with these explanations. If this is the case, make a conscious effort to challenge each other or take an opposing position. This challenges you to justify your explanations well and can lead to cognitive conflict, which in turn can enhance your learning.
  • When analysing the learning activity curves, focus on finding answers to your key question. You will probably notice many other aspects of the lesson that you find exciting and worth discussing. Record these in your notes and come back to them when you study the next lesson.