Implementing Scrum check-ins in the classroom is a way for teachers to check in with their students and understand how they are doing. Scrum is a term from Agile Project Management, which comes from rugby. It is like a mini check-in that helps teachers see where their students are at in their learning and gives them important feedback. To do a Scrum check-in, teachers can ask their students three simple questions: What did you work on last week? What are you working on this week? What are your blockers? It’s a great way for teachers to support their students and help them make progress in their learning.

By implementing Scrum check-ins, teachers can create a classroom culture where students feel supported and engaged in their learning. They can start the week with a roundtable conversation where everyone shares their answers to the three questions. This helps students understand their own projects and allows their classmates to gain insight into their processes and provide help and support. Using tools like Unrulr, students can showcase their progress in different ways, such as videos, PDFs, photos, or audio recordings. This collaborative approach creates a joyful and connected classroom, similar to what we see in sports, where students can learn and grow together.

Introduction

In the world of project management, there is a popular framework called Scrum. Scrum is a way to help teams work together and complete projects in an effective and organized manner. But did you know that Scrum can also be used in the classroom? That’s right! Scrum check-ins can be a fantastic tool for teachers to use to keep track of student progress and ensure that everyone is working towards their goals. In this article, we will explore what Scrum check-ins are, the benefits of implementing them in the classroom, how to get started, and much more. So, let’s dive right in!

What is Scrum check-in?

Before we dive into Scrum check-ins, let’s first understand what Scrum is. Scrum is a framework that helps teams work together to complete projects. It emphasizes collaboration, communication, and flexibility. Scrum check-ins are short meetings that take place within the larger Scrum framework. During these check-ins, team members, or in the case of the classroom, students, share updates on their progress, discuss any challenges they are facing, and plan their next steps.

Benefits of Implementing Scrum Check-ins

Implementing Scrum check-ins in the classroom can bring several benefits. Firstly, it promotes accountability. Students are accountable not only to their teachers but also to their peers. They have to provide updates on their progress and reflect on their achievements, which can motivate them to stay on track and complete their tasks.

Secondly, Scrum check-ins foster collaboration and communication. During these check-ins, students have the opportunity to share their ideas, ask for help, and provide feedback to their peers. This collaboration can lead to a richer learning experience as students can learn from each other and tackle challenges together.

Thirdly, Scrum check-ins provide structure and organization. By setting a routine for these meetings, students learn to manage their time effectively and develop self-discipline. They also learn to break down projects into smaller tasks, making them more manageable and less overwhelming.

Getting Started with Scrum Check-ins

Now that you understand the benefits of Scrum check-ins, it’s time to get started! The first step is to introduce the concept of Scrum to your students. You can explain the basic principles of Scrum, such as teamwork, transparency, and accountability. You can also use relatable examples, like a sports team working together to win a game.

Once your students have a grasp of the Scrum framework, explain how Scrum check-ins fit into the larger picture. Let them know that these check-ins will be brief meetings where each student will provide updates on their progress and discuss any challenges they are facing. Reassure them that these check-ins are meant to be supportive and collaborative, not to put them on the spot or make them feel criticized.

Setting the Scrum Check-in Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to Scrum check-ins. Set a regular time and place for these meetings, ideally at the beginning or end of each class. This routine will help students develop a sense of ownership and responsibility. It also ensures that everyone gets an equal opportunity to share their progress and receive feedback.

When setting the routine, make sure to allocate enough time for each student to speak. This will vary depending on the number of students in the class, but aim for around 2-3 minutes per student. Additionally, consider implementing a rotation system where students take turns leading the check-ins, giving them a chance to practice leadership and public speaking skills.

Creating Scrum Check-in Prompts

To structure the discussions in the Scrum check-ins, it can be helpful to create prompts or guiding questions for students to answer. These prompts can be tailored to the specific project or assignment at hand. For example, if students are working on a group project, the prompt could be “What progress did you make towards the project this week?”, or if they are writing essays, the prompt could be “What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?”.

The prompts should encourage students to reflect on their progress, identify any roadblocks, and think critically about their learning journey. It’s important to keep the language simple and accessible, so students of all ages and abilities can participate comfortably. You can also encourage students to come up with their own prompts, giving them a sense of ownership and autonomy.

Structuring the Scrum Check-in Session

Now that you have the routine and prompts in place, it’s time to structure the Scrum check-in session. Begin by giving each student a designated time to speak while others listen attentively. Encourage active listening by asking students to provide constructive feedback or ask questions after each update.

To maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere during check-ins, establish some ground rules. These rules can include speaking respectfully, actively engaging in the discussion, and keeping the conversation focused on the task at hand. Make sure everyone understands and agrees to these rules to create a safe space for everyone to share and learn from each other.

Using Scrum Tools in the Classroom

In addition to the check-ins, you can also introduce Scrum tools to enhance the classroom experience. One popular tool is the Scrum board, which visually represents tasks and their progress. You can create a physical board using simple materials like sticky notes and a whiteboard, or use digital tools like project management software or online collaboration platforms.

The Scrum board can be divided into columns representing different stages of completion, such as “To Do,” “In Progress,” and “Done.” Students can move their tasks across these columns as they progress, giving them a clear visual representation of their progress and what needs to be done. This visual aid helps students stay organized, prioritize tasks, and see how their work contributes to the overall project.

Assessing Student Progress through Scrum Check-ins

Scrum check-ins are not only about sharing updates but also about assessing student progress. As a teacher, you can use these check-ins to gather valuable insights into each student’s understanding, engagement, and challenges. Observe how students articulate their progress and listen for any struggles they may be facing.

During or after the check-ins, provide feedback to students individually or as a group. Recognize their accomplishments, address any concerns, and offer guidance for improvement. This feedback loop is crucial for students to understand their strengths and areas for growth, fostering a growth mindset and continuous improvement.

Conclusion

Implementing Scrum check-ins in the classroom can be a game-changer for teachers and students alike. It promotes accountability, collaboration, and organization while providing a structured framework for student progress. By introducing the concept of Scrum, setting a routine, creating prompts, and using Scrum tools, teachers can create a supportive and empowering learning environment.

Remember, the goal of Scrum check-ins is not just to complete projects, but to foster a love of learning, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare students for the challenges they will face in the future. So give Scrum check-ins a try and watch your students thrive in their learning journey!