The Nature of Quality Assurance

The requirements for quality assurance link directly to the structure described here for the elements of an evaluation system (the what, the how, and trained evaluators).

The What
Central to the notion of quality assurance in teaching is a clear and coherent definition of exemplary practice (for more information, see Chapter 4). Some states have articulated standards of practice (e.g., the California Standards for the Teaching Profession, the Texas Learner-Centered Proficiencies, and Vermont's Standards for Vermont Educators), and districts are required to use these as the basis of their evaluation procedures. Other districts have found the components of professional practice described inEnhancing Professional Practice: A Framework for Teaching (Danielson, 1996) useful as a structure for evaluation. Figure 3.1 lists the four domains and 22 components of this structure.

Figure 3.1. Components of Professional Practice

Domain 1: Planning and Preparation Domain 1 (Planning and Preparation) includes comprehensive understanding of the content to be taught, knowledge of the student's backgrounds, and designing instruction and assessment. Its components are:

o 1a. Demonstrating knowledge of content and pedagogy o 1b. Demonstrating knowledge of students o 1c. Selecting instructional goals o 1d. Demonstrating knowledge of resources o 1e. Designing coherent instruction o 1f. Assessing student learning Domain 2: The Classroom Environment Domain 2 (The Classroom Environment) addresses the teacher's skill in establishing an environment conducive to learning, including both the physical and interpersonal aspects of the environment. Its components are: o 2a. Creating an environment of respect and rapport o 2b. Establishing a culture for learning o 2c. Managing classroom procedures o 2d. Managing student behavior o 2e. Organizing physical space Domain 3: Instruction Domain 3 (Instruction) is concerned with the teacher's skill in engaging students in learning the content, and includes the wide range of instructional strategies that enable students to learn. Its components are: o 3a. Communicating clearly and accurately o 3b. Using questioning and discussion techniques o 3c. Engaging students in learning o 3d. Providing feedback to students o 3e. Demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness Domain 4: Professional Responsibilities Domain 4 (Professional Responsibilities) addresses a teacher's additional professional

responsibilities, including self-assessment and reflection, communication with parents, participating in ongoing professional development, and contributing to the school and district environment. Its components are:

o o o o o o

4a. Reflecting on teaching 4b. Maintaining accurate records 4c. Communicating with families 4d. Contributing to the school and district 4e. Growing and developing professionally 4f. Showing professionalism

SOURCE: http://www.ascd.org/publications/books/100219/chapters/A-Blueprintfor-Teacher-Evaluation.aspx