Sonar Tracker: What's the difference between Sonar Tracker observations and Awards & Activities observations?

Introduction

Within the Juniper Education JoinUp ecosystem, there are two powerful tools to support pupil progress and motivation. Observations of Pupil Learning can be made in Sonar Tracker when you subscribe to either the Observations module or the Parent Engagement Bundle (Observations module and the Awards & Activities module). Meanwhile, Awards & Activities observations are made in Comms Hub. While they work well together, each serves a different purpose.  This article explains the purpose of both types of observations, their similarities and differences, their importance and how they work together.

Comparing Observations of Pupil Learning and Awards & Activities

 Sonar Tracker ObservationsAwards & Activities Observations
PurposeTo record and evidence learning in actionTo recognise, motivate, and celebrate positive behaviours and achievements.
What they areShort records (notes, photos, assessment comments) showing how pupils learn, engage, and achieve in the classroom.Quick acknowledgements given to pupils for meeting expectations, showing effort, or demonstrating school values. Activities can also be linked for engagement and fun.
Why they matter
  1. Provide a rich, accurate picture of pupil progress.
  2. Help identify strengths, gaps and next steps.
  3. Build a reliable bank of evidence for assessment, reports and moderation.
  4. Support meaningful conversations with parents around learning, progress and next steps.
  1. Encourage positive behaviour and attitudes to learning.
  2. Create a culture of recognition and celebration.
  3. Motivate pupils through consistent, fair rewards.
  4. Build pupil confidence and enthusiasm for school life.
ExampleA photo of a group science experiment with notes on how a pupil applied problem-solving skills.Awarding a pupil for showing resilience in Maths, or for consistently helping others.

How the two types of observations work together

  1. Observations give evidence of learning.
  2. Awards & Activities give the recognition that motivates pupils to keep going.
  3. Used together, they create a cycle of progress and celebration.

 

Updated

Was this article helpful?

0 out of 0 found this helpful

Have more questions? Submit a request