The concept of instructional improvement is used as a framework to synthesize research concerning systematic observation of instruction. A self-help model for improving classroom instruction is proposed that illustrates the concepts of instructional effectiveness, systematic observation of instruction, and assistance as a personalized,…

Student teaching is considered the most important experience of a teacher preparation program. The supervisor of student teachers must possess excellent observation skills and be able to change behaviors. Suggestions for supervisors of physical education student teachers are offered. (DF)

The importance of family assessment in the evaluation of preschool-age children is addressed. Approaches to assessment that include individual, family system, and community contributions to problem behaviors of preschool children are discussed. Factors that influence family interactions are presented within a theoretical framework of reciprocal…

The mastery of the reasoning skills of observation, classification, serialization, and spatial relationships is not solely within the province of social studies but also falls heavily upon students' acquisition of concepts, skills, and operations in mathematics. Each of these skills, as they relate to social studies and math, is discussed. (RM)

Describes the basic method of using naturally occurring settings for research on media effects. Suggests research questions that could be studied and identifies settings (and media markets) most promising for such research. (PD)

Six third-grade subjects who were selected by peers' sociometric ratings, teacher rating, and observation of six social skills, received social skills training, and individual and group intervention. Ss' behavior were shaped in skill areas to approximate average peer rate, with resulting increase in sociometric ranking and teacher rating.…

Suggests various observations that can be made while at a zoo, including behavior of animals, adaptations to special environments, locomotion, food type, and physical characteristics. Provides a sample data sheet for animal observations, citing the usefulness of organized observation. (JM)

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)

A study to identify clinical procedures for which department chairpersons felt observational checklists would be useful is reported. A secondary purpose was to investigate aspects of the use of direct observation techniques for the assessment of clinical skills. (Author/MLW)

The Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Plan for Instructional Improvement requires principals to take part in several workshops and activities to learn how to analyze what goes on in the classroom. Principals then direct teacher inservice training by conducting staff meetings, small seminars, and classroom observation followed by teacher conferences. (MLF)

Describes four stages of the assessment of instructional materials: (1) research and development; (2) assessment of prototype materials; (3) formative evaluation; and (4) summative evaluation as used in the Vocabulary Development Project. (DEP)

Two data-sets were used to assess the relation of teaching performances to pupil learning: (1) direct observations of teaching; and (2) teacher's reports on teaching activities and measures of pupil achievement. (MM)

Suggests that the observation of student behavior may be a better method of assessing learning than the use of standardized tests and outlines several observational techniques, including student commentaries, shadow studies, checklists, and anecdotal records. (Author/JG)

The sample classroom observation checklist enables educators to judge the level of implementation of an innovative program in a classroom and in a school. (IRT)

Interpersonal functions of everyday caretaker speech usage are examined when addressed to toddlers, threes and fours. Results support hypotheses derived from Piagetian theory concerning early developments in ego-differentiation. (Author/RM)