The first half of this paper concentrates on the need for the institution of evaluation methods which stress the systematic use of both quantitative techniques and qualitative, direct observation methods. In this way, a more comprehensive picture of the events under consideration may be presented, and changes in student learning and behavior may…

More information is necessary about constraints placed on teachers before sound classroom performance evaluations can be conducted. Results of an observational instrument utilized in South Carolina, "Describing Practices and Intentions of Classroom Teachers," isolates classroom factors associated with appropriateness of teachers'…

Reviews problems and issues in early childhood evaluation, and discusses advantages and disadvantages associated with using classroom observations. The "Bronson Social and Task Skill Profile" is described, and its usefulness is discussed by reviewing the way it has been used in several research studies. (HTH)

Teacher effectiveness is an issue that has received increased attention in recent years, as researchers have become aware of limitations in models that see the school as the key arena for improving pupil learning outcomes. This renewed interest makes it timely to look again at the methods used in teacher effectiveness research. This article…

Describes a study that was conducted to determine the effectivenss of training teacher evaluators in lesson plan analysis, classroom observation techniques, and supervisory conference skills. (HOD)

Suggests some self-study methods which middle school educators may use to improve their teaching methods and their curriculum. Condensed from "SAANYS Journal," published by the School Administrators' Association New York State, Winter 1980-81, pp5-8. (SJL)

Examines observation as a process of systematic, intentional action, exploring strategies for observing within the classroom. Implications for the practice of educational evaluation, particularly teacher performance evaluation, are noted. Observation as a process of systematic, intentional action becomes embedded within a larger agenda aimed at…

Evaluation methods lack direction to improve efforts of teachers because the methods operate on vague impressions. Congruence analysis techniques offer promise for diagnostic determination of strengths and weaknesses in teaching practices over a variety of specified criteria. The analysis circumvents some of the problems of linking objective data…

Ethical issues relating to naturalistic evaluation are addressed, focusing on the role of the evaluator, problems of privacy and data gathering techniques, and issues relating to the use/abuse of findings. Benefits and costs of the naturalistic approach to program evaluation are also identified. (EGS)

Critiques standardized, static literacy assessment practice. Proposes an interactive, curriculum-embedded, multidimensional approach to assessment based on observations and records of student literacy made on a variety of occasions over time and in a variety of authentic learning contexts. Demonstrates how a teacher and a student interacted to…

A quality evaluation program is needed to determine student progress in the language arts. Evaluation procedures emphasized should appraise in terms of stated objectives. A variety of procedures should be used since no approach is perfect. Approaches include: instructor observation of student progress; completion of checklists or rating scales;…

Through colleague consultation, teachers develop a collaborative relationship conducive to interclass visitation, observation, and discussion. This helps teachers to become more critical and reflective of their teaching. Clinical supervision is suggested as a method of helping teachers find meaning in their teaching. (Author/DF)

Discusses epistemological issues involved in the use of qualitative methods to assess classroom-based microcomputer programs, specifically Apple Computer's "Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow." Six models of qualitative data design and use are examined: anecdotal, structured observations, case study, multisite case study, ethnography, and…

The paper, originally given at a 1986 Ethnic and Multicultural Symposium, emphasizes the need for schools to recognize and understand the impact of culture on student academic and social success. Classroom based assessment and evaluation strategies for use with culturally diverse, behaviorally disordered students are reviewed and discussed. An…

Two methodologies for teacher-focused process evaluation--rating scales and systematic observation--are discussed and comments are made about their characteristics and effective utilization to improve teachers' performance. Process evaluation, referring specifically to the act of evaluating what teachers do in their classrooms, may be of formative…