The Framework
The AIW Institute offers professional development and capacity building using the Framework for Authentic Intellectual Work, developed by Drs. Fred Newmann, M. Bruce King, and colleagues at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
The AIW framework drives our collaborations with teacher teams and administrators. The framework consists of three criteria that are essential to high quality learning experiences for students: construction of knowledge, disciplined inquiry and value beyond school. A school-based AIW team analyzes artifacts of teacher tasks, student performance, and instruction through the lens of these three criteria.
Construction of Knowledge
Do students construct new knowledge through higher order thinking?
Disciplined Inquiry
Do students build on prior knowledge to develop in-depth understanding, expressed through elaborated forms of communication?
Value Beyond School
Do students apply knowledge to real world problems or issues of personal relevance?
How does it work?
What We Do
The AIW Framework is put into practice through a unique approach to teacher collaboration.
Professional Development
Using AIW's rubrics, teacher teams analyze instructional artifacts and build shared understandings. AIW coaches support each team's unique learning journey.
AIW Institute Services
The AIW Institute Coaches work with schools through multiple approaches and media to support collaborative teacher team-building, enhanced instruction, and more authentic learning for students.
Who We Are
Life-Long Educators, Instructional Coaches, School Administrators and Trained Researchers
Leadership & Affiliates
Meet the educators and coaches of the AIW Institute.
Our Partners
Meet some of our forward-thinking partners from the United States and abroad.
Testimonials
The partnership with Laura Lang, Bruce King, and AIW has been a game changer for our school. The impact of educators collaborating to critically examine elements of their practice coupled with student outcomes has resulted in better teaching, improved learning experiences and stronger connections between staff. It has helped to establish the fact that we all are learners and leaders, and when we work together, we're better.
Jim Pliner
Principal, Oregon High School
As the superintendent of a school district that is a participant in Authentic Intellectual Work, I am very grateful for the professional support our entire district has received from TS Educational Leadership Consultants. Both Tina Wahlert and Susie Peterson have demonstrated a passion for their mission and a commitment to our district and staff to the highest degree. Both Tina and Susie are organized, proactive, dedicated, and very responsive in working with our district to meet and fulfill our needs; both of them are very willing to listen and respond to the highly-individualized needs as expressed by the stakeholders and staff who are a part of our district. I cannot emphasize enough how valuable TS Educational Leadership has been to improving the quality of teaching and learning at Kelliher School District.
Tim Lutz
Superintendent-Kelliher Public Schools, Kelliher, MinnesotaAIW In the Field
Contact Us
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