Comprehensive, coherent systems of teacher development and evaluation are needed to meet our goals of a high-quality education for all students. The article includes specific information about the role of performance assessment in supporting teacher preparation and development.
In this article, Linda Darling-Hammond outlines key features of teacher development and evaluation systems, which include:
1. Teacher evaluation should be based on professional teaching standards.
2. Evaluations should include multifaceted evidence of teacher practice, student learning, and professional contributions.
3. Evaluators should be knowledgeable about instruction and well trained in the evaluation system, including the process of how to give productive feedback and teachers.
4. Evaluation should be accompanied by useful feedback, and connected to professional development opportunities.
5. The evaluation system should value and encourage teacher collaboration.
6. Expert teachers should be part of the assistance and review process for new assistance.
7. Panels of teachers and administrators should oversee the evaluation process to ensure it is thorough and of high quality, as well as fair and reliable.
