The expert system computer simulation detailed in this report is designed to investigate patterns of valuing in decision-making about dossiers of performance data used in teacher promotion evaluations. The knowledge base for the simulation consists of 111 questions organized into 117 rules. The questions and linked advice were derived from…

A step-by-step outline of recommended procedures is presented for a performance based evaluation system for teachers in Missouri. Four general performance areas form the basis for the system: (1) instructional processes; (2) classroom management; (3) interpersonal relationships; and (4) professional responsibilities. Nineteen specific,…

In an Oklahoma case, the district court ruled that the school district had failed to investigate the background of a teacher convicted of a second sexual abuse charge. School districts should examine personnel polices and practices, and the school lawyer should review state laws, regulations, and court cases. (MLF)

Summarizes results of a study exploring verbal communication processes of supervisors and teachers involved in teacher development conferences. Highlights supervisors' need for leadership and effective communication skills in observation sessions, so that both inexperienced and self-confident teachers will be encouraged to improve instructional…

A study of 48 secondary school mathematics teachers and 4 different treatments of supervision indicate that teachers tended to carry out more suggestions when they saw the suggestions modeled (demonstrated) by their supervisors. (23 references) (MLF)

Discussed is the use of student perception instruments in the evaluation of teachers and teaching. The development and testing of an instrument is presented. An example of feedback to science student teachers from this instrument is given. (CW)

This paper analyzes the implementation of a staff development and appraisal scheme at the University of Birmingham, England. The analysis focuses on the stakeholders and the decisive factors that were influential in effecting this innovation. Explored are three perspectives on leadership on how appraisers can become more effective. (GLR)

Discusses new strategies for conceptualizing teacher effectiveness at the elementary/secondary levels, to be used as a basis for improving the usefulness of research on teacher effectiveness. The aim is to shift away from one-dimensional assessment of individual teachers toward a multidimensional approach that can inform improvement of both…

This paper describes the development and implementation of a teacher reward system based on merit that was used at the University of Nebraska. Explained are the organizational set-up of the program into operational groups and their responsibilities and the steps taken to establish interest and commitment in the project. Also discussed is the…

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…

A conceptual framework is developed to consider two dimensions of evaluation systems likely to lead performers to internalize the evaluation process. The theory of evaluation and authority developed by Dornbusch and Scott provides the basis for a review of six studies in support of two propositions: (1) the more frequently performers are…

The drawbacks of the common practice of using check-lists for teacher evaluation include inadequate measurement that emphasizes evaluation only, lack of objective data gathering techniques, and lack of reliable and consistent teacher performance criteria. An inservice program for school principals was designed to improve their observation and…

One philosophical issue underlying instructional evaluation arises from tension between the concepts of academic freedom and academic responsibility. Academic freedom can be cited as an argument against evaluating teaching in circumstances where evaluation genuinely encumbers the pursuit or dissemination of knowledge. Another source of tension…

The Arizona Lesson Observation and Evaluation (ALOE) system of evaluating teaching is presented. ALOE was developed from Arizona adaptations of the Georgia Teacher Performance Assessment Instruments and, with G. Taylor's "Functional Elements Analysis of Teaching Skills" (FEATS), forms an integrated observation package which allows…

Nine articles by California educators are included in this guidebook for the planning and implementation of beginning teacher support programs, with a focus on improving teacher quality and retention. An explicit relationship between the conceptual framework and the operational program increases the effectiveness of such programs. Chapters titles…