Resources
Planning for Systemic Implementation of IE Standard
Successful results of cognitive enrichment programs have been obtained through systemic (for example, a school district), school-wide (multiple grade levels), group (class), or individual implementation of IE curriculum.
SCEL offers a comprehensive plan for systemic implementation of cognitive enrichment. Through proven marketing and public relations practice, we can help raise the awareness of the public and policy makers for the need of Cognitive Enrichment in the schools. Following proper public education to garner public and school system support for the program, SCEL then trains necessary personnel to implement the program in the school(s), evaluates the success of the program via quantifiable results, which ultimately justifies the continual financial investment in cognitive enrichment and the IE curriculum.
For systemic or school-wide implementation of cognitive enrichment through IE and LPAD tools, the following five-phase model is suggested:
A Model for Systemic Implementation within a school or district
Phase One – Awareness/Orientation
First, we provide an introduction of the program to school personnel and the public. Then, we utilize continual communication - in the form of short, newsletters and scheduled news releases - to generate interest and public support of the program, while keeping everyone informed. Finally, we disseminate the program results - including in-progress, summative and long-term results, both qualitative and quantitative. Ultimately, we share the growing number of positive cases where cognitive enrichment programs have enhanced academic performance - yes, including test scores!
Note: Phase I (Awareness) typically continues throughout the program.
Phase Two - Training
Teacher training for Instrumental Enrichment (IE) will be over a two to three-year period. Follow-up monitoring and classroom observation will be a part of the program. In addition, at least two counselors at each site will be trained to administer the Learning Propensity Assessment Device (LPAD).
Phase Three - Implementation
Following teacher training, Feuerstein's Instrumental Enrichment (IE) will be introduced into the school curriculum in two to three consecutive years. Weekly sharing and planning sessions among teachers, coordinated by the trainer, are recommended as a part of the implementation.
Phase Four - Evaluation
In-progress evaluation, summative evaluation, and follow-up evaluation will be a part of the program. Both qualitative and quantitative evaluation measures will be taken for student participants and teachers.
Phase Five - Continuation
Continuation of the program will require training at least two teachers at each site to become Certified IE Trainers for new teachers. In addition, provisions for the continued purchase of student materials must be made.
For a further review of Instrumental Enrichment Standard and Basic curricula, go to Overview of IE Standard, IE Basic.
Three Levels for IE Standard, for recipients ages 4th grade to adult
There are three levels in the IE Standard curriculum. A common model proposed for students in the United States is to use one level for each grade (for example, 4th through 6th or 6th through 8th). Teachers are trained over a three-year period, ideally, with one level being introduced each year. Students at the implementation sites have IE classes for one and a half to two hours per week, throughout the academic year. During the implementation process, the SCEL trainer makes regular site visits to provide support for the IE teachers or instructors and is available for consultation as needed.
Two Levels for IE Basic, for recipients ages three through 3rd grade
Implementation models for IE Basic are more flexible then the model for IE Standard. Instructors trained to use the IE Basic instruments are encouraged to select those that are most appropriate for their students.
Two Levels for the LPAD
SCEL also trains teachers to administer the LPAD. Training for LPAD is provided in two levels, with each requiring a minimum of 40 hours of study with a certified LPAD trainer. Training sessions in the LPAD are scheduled at the Southeastern Center annually to complement our IE summer training schedule. In addition, training in LPAD is available upon the request of clients.
