What this Site Contains/ Navigating Site/ What CLIPs Are

What this Site Contains
This site contains seven online learning modules that introduce colleges and individuals to the design and operation of Communities of Learning, Inquiry and Practice, also called CLIPs. Module 1 explains what CLIPs are. Module 2 sets out the Eight Guiding Principles for CLIPs. Modules 3-5 explain the inquiry steps. Module 6 explains the role of CLIP Facilitators. Module 7 describes how the CLIP Guide organizes, manages, and coordinates all CLIPs at the college.

It takes about 20 minutes each to preview Modules 1-4 and 6-7. It takes about 40 minutes to preview Module 5. After previewing the modules, the amount of time needed to study them in depth depends on how many downloadable resources you study and whether you use the PowerPoint slides as the basis for conversations at a CLIP meeting. By previewing, we mean viewing all pages, videos, and popups in a module, but not downloading the supporting documents.

The modules were developed by InSites based on three years (2004-2007) of action research at Bakersfield College in California. Bakersfield College is continuing to support CLIPs on campus. Each year brings new twists and discoveries. Although we do not have the resources to completely revamp the modules, we maintain contact with the college so we can add special insights that arise from the continuation of CLIPs beyond the 2006-07 school year.

InSites developed the modules based on testing the CLIP process at Bakersfield College in California through action research supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under grant #0335581. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

Navigating the Site
This site has 4 elements: web pages, videos, popups, and downloadable resources.
To navigate the web pages, simply use the and arrows to move from page to page. Use underlined text to jump to other pages in the same module. From any title page, you can also jump to other modules or go to the Home page.

To play the videos, click on the video controls at the bottom of the video player. To turn the captions on and off, click the Caption button.

There are four types of popups, each having additional information:

= more information about STEM study group CLIP
= more examples from pilot site
= quotes from CLIP members at pilot site
= extra information about topic being presented


The modules also have downloadable resources to support individual and collaborative inquiry. These include examples of CLIP documents and in-depth reference materials. Many of the downloadable documents may be useful within professional development sessions about the various topics covered in the modules.

When you see an entry like the following, you can download its file by clicking on the file type you wish to use:

To download "Building a Culture of Inquiry Through CLIPs," click on file type: <.doc> <.pdf>

A ".doc" file is a Microsoft Word file that you can edit and resave with your changes. A ".pdf" file is an Adobe Acrobat file that can be downloaded without additional software, but cannot be changed. A ".ppt" file is a Microsoft PowerPoint file that can also be edited and resaved with your changes. These slides are especially intended for use as collaborative tools in group settings.

What CLIPs Are
Communities of Learning, Inquiry, and Practice (CLIPs) provide opportunities for faculty to collaboratively study issues of importance to them about student learning and success. CLIPs add vitality to institutionally determined assessment, program review, and planning processes.

CLIPs are self-selected informal, dynamic groups of faculty and/or staff (and sometimes others) who conduct an inquiry together about a topic they identify. The inquiry steps are (1) design the inquiry; (2) collect data; and (3) make meaning and shape practice. Through participation in the CLIP, members build their capacity to collaboratively conduct such inquiries and enhance their professional practice. A member within each CLIP serves as its Facilitator. An overall CLIP Guide positions the CLIPs at the college and supports the CLIP work by handling coordination, organization, and financial matters related to CLIP work.

Communications
For assistance in the use of the materials, contact Kathy Wyckoff, InSites Project Associate, at kwyckoff@insites.org or 970-226-1003.

InSites welcomes feedback about the quality and value of the modules as well as materials, pictures, and other items about your experience with CLIPs.

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