Day Two - with teachers

Meetings this afternoon focused on Teacher Evaluation.  The district is beginning to use a new evaluation system based on Charlotte Danielson's Framework for Teaching.  I'm impressed by the empahsis on Teaching Practice as part of the framework.  In particular portions of each domain (especially 1, 2, 3) of the framework seem relevant for working with future teachers.  (Rubrics to evaluate teachers have the potential to be adapted to evaluating peer teaching in a methods course.)  I think this would fit well with mathematics-specific frameworks for teaching developed by QUASAR and others.  The bottom line for the classroom environment seems to be to encouraging students to be independent and engaged learners.  Preparation, discussion, reflection, and feedback all seem part of the evaluation process as well.

Domain 1: Planning and Preparation 1a Demonstrating Knowledge of Content and Pedagogy
1b Demonstrating Knowledge of Students
1c Setting Instructional Outcomes
1d Demonstrating Knowledge of Resources
1e Designing Coherent Instruction
1f Designing Student Assessments

Domain 2: Classroom Environment 2a Creating an Environment of Respect and Rapport
2b Establishing a Culture for Learning
2c Managing Classroom Procedures
2d Managing Student Behavior
2e Organizing Physical Space

Domain 3: Instruction 3a Communicating With Students
3b Using Questioning and Discussion Techniques
3c Engaging Students in Learning
3d Using Assessment in Instruction
3e Demonstrating Flexibility and Responsiveness

Domain 4: Professional Responsibilities 4a Reflecting on Teaching
4b Maintaining Accurate Records
4c Communicating with Families
4d Participating in a Professional Community
4e Growing and Developing Professionally
4f Showing Professionalism