Learning to Observe and Interpret Behavior as a High-Impact Practice Within Family Science Courses

Abstract

Riley discusses the use of two courses to teach students the art of observation and how to interpret behavior through the use of writing assignments and critiquing. The author illustrates the skills taught through the use of two student observations and exercises for the reader. Next, he discusses the high-impact elements integrated into the courses through the observations, writing assignments, and critiques such as spending time on meaningful tasks, frequent performance feedback, faculty and students interact about substantive matters, diversity, and applications on/off campus.