This article provides a conceptual framework for considering both the theoretical and methodological factors that underpin the successful validation of a competency framework. Drawing on educational assessment literature, this article argues that a valid competency framework relates to an interpretive judgement of the credibility of the claims…

Software Effort Estimation is one of the most challenging aspects in the software development life cycle. Recent empirical studies in the area of software development estimation indicate the presence of two models for effort estimation: (i) Formal, and (ii) Expert Based (Informal). The IT sector in Palestine is one of the most promising and…

Monitoring and evaluating staff tutors necessitates constant follow-up to ensure that they are in line with the University's mission and vision. This has raised a fundamental educational question: how to coach rather than monitor the tutors. To answer this question, Cottrell's (2008) CREAM (Creative, Reflective, Effective, Active, Motivated)…

This study aims to explain the extent to which prospective physics teachers' views and practices are consistent with the constructivist framework. A case study design was employed as the research approach. The study was conducted with 11 prospective physics teachers attending a state university in Turkey. Data was collected through semi-structured…

In order to improve one's teaching in the long run, reflection on the lessons makes up an integral part in the process of developing a sufficient reflection competence. The problem, however, is how this reflection competence can be established in student teachers already and if that concept is compatible with current systems of teacher education…

Parallel efforts in principal evaluation and educator preparation are prompting new conversations among states, higher education programs, private foundations, and professional associations about strengthening school leadership development pipelines. A strong school principal pipeline has many elements, but each element supports the evaluation and…

Modeling Instruction holds the potential for transforming science instruction and improving student achievement. Key to the success of Modeling Instruction, however, is the fidelity of implementation of its curriculum. This qualitative study examined the impact of Modeling Instruction professional development on participating teachers'…

In 2013-14, Letterland had strong implementation, with moderate to high fidelity within approximately 90% of Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) K-1 classrooms. The impact of Letterland on students' reading achievement was neutral to positive. A significantly higher percentage of WCPSS kindergarten students were at or above benchmark mid-year…

This report presents the appendices to the report of the National Research Center for Career and Technical Education's (NRCCTE's) five-year collaboration with the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) to develop an induction model for new career and technical education (CTE) teachers pursuing an alternative route to certification that increases…

In the present study we call attention to the close connection between languages and globalization, and we also emphasize the importance of the Internet and online websites in foreign language teaching and learning as unavoidable elements of computer assisted language learning (CALL). We prepared a checklist by which we investigated 28 foreign…

In a time of evolving Algebraic standards and expectations for Minnesota teachers and students, the establishment of quality professional development and technical assistance can help educators move more confidently toward greater mathematics understanding and, subsequently, successful teaching and learning. To this end, the Minnesota Department…

This survey was conducted based on requests from local education agencies who wish to use models in creating their own needs assessment. The 39 sample forms and questionnaires included in this document represent pupil personnel services which are delivered through a variety of educational systems. The Illinois State Board of Education cannot…

Proposes a resource analysis model to help library managers acquire most appropriate integrated online library system. The model examines human, equipment, and fiscal resources of acquiring library and supplying vendor, complementing respective strengths and weaknesses of each. A resource checklist is provided to narrow range of choices to single…

Presents a decision model for multimedia design that includes eight components: needs and goals, learner characteristics, topics/tasks, objectives, performance assessment, instructional activities, media/delivery systems, and resources. A checklist for multimedia design and a project task timeline are included. Potential impacts of multimedia on…

To assist school district personnel in planning and developing curriculums, this handbook describes and explains a 10-step process and provides supporting examples, checklists, and references. A brief introduction suggests how to use the handbook. Each of the 10 following sections then presents one step, explains its substeps, and offers a…