Reviews current teacher evaluation practices with particular focus on the use of observation. Argues that direct observation is an inadequate evaluation technique because it assumes that stability and consistency are necessary for effective teaching. Presents data showing that flexibility is a more accurate characterization of elementary level…

In this article, I draw several lessons learned about how to assess student, classroom, and teacher effects, with a specific focus on performance-based teacher evaluations. One lesson is that hierarchical linear modeling techniques are helpful in sorting out the magnitude of impacts at these three different levels of the education system. The…

Observes the increasing use of class test scores for rating teachers and reviews arguments against this practice. Cites research pointing to a variety of influences on standardized test scores other than teacher performance. Concludes that teacher evaluation must incorporate a variety of measures. (KH)

In December of 1986, the Texas State Teachers Association commissioned Educational Evaluation Services, Inc., to conduct a descriptive research study on the appraisal process and mastery learning among teachers in Texas. Data were gathered in each of five representative school districts in five areas: (1) Dallas-Fort Worth; (2) West Texas; (3) San…

This paper emphasizes that good teacher-evaluation systems must vary in the kinds of data sources that are used for each teacher within the same personnel-evaluation system. Presents a literature review that shows such variable data systems are technically defensible. The paper examines variable data sources in relation to the "Personnel…

Describes a British government study of self-evaluation procedures used by local educational authorities. A survey of self-evaluation policies in 104 school districts revealed a variety of approaches. Findings indicate a need to further define the evaluations' objectives, increase teacher participation, and increase staff development training. (AM)

Examines six dilemmas endemic to teacher education: coverage versus mastery emphases; evaluative versus affective emphases; emphasis on current versus future needs of candidates; thematic versus eclectic approaches; emphasis on current practices versus innovative practice; and specific versus global assessment criteria. (SM)

This paper addresses the problem of how teaching performance should be evaluated and rewarded and examines how a University of Nebraska (Lincoln) Project FIPSE (Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education) has helped to improve the climate for teaching and the processes for recognizing and rewarding excellence. First, the paper examines…

This booklet describes the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, an organization that allows the teaching profession to set high and rigorous standards for itself, create meaningful performance assessments based on the standards, and identify experienced teachers who meet the standards. National Board Certification focuses on…

Discusses how legal issues impinge upon teacher competency testing, describing key legal provisions (antitrust protection, due process, equal protection, substantial adverse impact, and business necessity), and examining each one's impact on testing and teacher certification. Recommendations to help teacher educators ensure legal, credible, and…

A conference on new perspectives in school administration was held for elementary school principals in the summer of 1975 by the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators. This paper summarizes material presented in five topic areas by eight speakers. Steve Goldschmidt's talk on school law touched on the administrator's and the school's…