An Independent Study: 

• Is learning that is designed and individually guided by the participant.

• Is data driven and linked to school and district goals.

• Can take many forms, but is structured in four phases:

• Identification of a problem or need based on data Development of a goal and a plan to achieve that goal Participation in an extended learning activity which, at some point, includes collaboration with other educators Preparation of a summary report and product that describes the results of the learning

Sample Extended Learning Activities for Achieving Independent Study Goals:

Expanding your professional knowledge and skill base through:

• Development and implementation of an instructional unit for standards-based curriculum that reflects student needs

• Development and implementation of assessments for standards-based curriculum that reflect student needs.

• Completion of a pre-approved undergraduate college course intended to strengthen content knowledge in a specific field, i.e. art, science, math, literacy **

• Use of case studies to monitor and evaluate instruction and student learning

• Translation of travel experience into classroom instruction and tools that are useful to improved student learning

** Undergraduate courses in Spanish and Technology no longer require prior approval or completion of an independent study application to be accepted for professional development/salary credit.