An Innovative Approach to Teacher Evaluation Using the TED Approach

Video Transcription

Welcome. I'm Trisha Fyfe. And in today's video lesson, we'll cover the lesson titled An Innovative Approach to Teacher Evaluation using the TED approach. As we learn about this topic, we will work toward several learning objectives. And in this video lesson, we'll answer the following two questions to guide our learning.

What are the aspects of an innovative approach to teacher evaluation, and how can components of the innovative model explored be used to enhance current models? If you were to compare teacher evaluation models across the US in various districts and states, you'd find that there are very few differences. Models that are innovative and new are few and far between.

Today, we'll look at one exception to this-- a teacher evaluation model that's used in New York. Because this is one of the mottoes that's more groundbreaking as far as teacher evaluation models, it's one that we should explore and consider when districts and states strive to select or adjust an evaluation model.

The practices that are used may prove helpful when coming up with recommendations that can be used to improve and enhance current teacher evaluation models. The fact is, many states and districts, and even schools, are looking to find a better fit for teacher evaluation models. This might mean that they seek to improve their current model, or they might look to develop a new innovative model.

Differentiation of the process is something that's becoming more of a focus area. The new thought is that we need to be considering how we can look at a teacher and their current skills, as well as the demographics of both the school and student population where they teach, and differentiate the evaluation process to consider all of this data.

One model that's currently doing this is the TED, Teacher Evaluation and Development Model. TED is an innovative approach to teacher evaluation and development that's transpiring in New York State. The focus of this model is the use of differentiated teacher evaluation processes.

This model strives to improve teacher and learning, and it revolves around the idea that one of the greatest indicators of student growth and achievement is teacher quality. Much research has been looked at in the collaboration of New York schools, American Federation of Teachers Union, teachers, principals, and administrators to come to this conclusion. And this research has played a huge part in building this model.

Six library management innovation teams led this work. Let's look at some of the characteristics that make this model so unique, and the TED system so novel. This model was created by the union, the teachers, and the administration all working together on the same level. This collaboration was extremely important and different than most efforts, where the models are created from the administration down, or from top-down.

Teacher voice is considered in this evaluation model, and process of development. Teachers have a sense of ownership and connection. This evaluation model aligns to the New York State Teaching Standards and teacher practice rubric. Multiple aspects of teacher effectiveness are measured throughout this model. The process embraces professional development and dialogue.

Professional development opportunities are personalized and differentiated. Each teacher's different and unique needs are met because of these. These professional development opportunities that align with the teachers needs incorporate peer assistance and teacher support. This model also documents and includes teaching and learning environments, and requires training of not only the teacher, but also the evaluators.

A user-friendly guide and training materials are available for ease of use. The focus of this model lies in several different areas. First, one focuses on evaluation practices that are fair. A primary focus of this model is teacher support. This is meant to cultivate highly effective teachers that meet the needs of all of their diverse students.

Another focus is on increasing retention of teachers, as well as for growth and development for both teachers and students. Yet another focus area is an approach that is differentiated and meets the needs of each and every teacher. And one main objective, or the focus of this model, is to guarantee that in the end, all students have access to high quality, effective teachers.

When seeking to select or improve a current teacher evaluation model, there are many aspects of TED that can and should be considered. Let's look at some specific components that might impact decisions on this improvement process. One thing to consider is the fact that this model is geared towards transforming and bettering school culture. This promotes growth. It's important that all involved in the process of improving teacher evaluation models are on board with this idea and the benefits of this model.

Another component of this process is collaboration of teachers, administration, and the union. Again, all need to be on board and working together. Teachers must have a voice. This is integral, as they're often the ones who are using these models the most and on all levels.

Teacher evaluation and development also thrives on continuous improvement. Therefore, systems must be developed and put into place that are efficient and well-designed.

So let's talk about what we learned today. We looked at the following questions. What are the aspects of an innovative approach to teacher evaluation, and how can components of the innovative model explored be used to enhance current models? In today's lesson, we discussed New York's innovative and effective teacher evaluation and development model.

The focus of this model is to use a differentiated teacher evaluation process. And this model strives to improve teaching and learning in many different areas. It revolves around the idea that one of the greatest indicators of student growth and achievement is teacher quality.

We explored some characteristics of this model, and considered some components that might impact decisions when implementing or using this model as a guide in development of education models. Now that you're more familiar with this concept, let's reflect.

Consider a teacher evaluation model that you are familiar with. If you were to implement some of the ideas and components around teacher evaluation and development, what would they be? What might the impacts of those changes be?

Thanks for joining me today in discussing a lesson in innovative approach to teacher evaluation using the TED, or Teacher Evaluation and Development approach. I hope found out value in this video lesson, and were able to apply these ideas and resources to your very own teaching.

To dive a little deeper and learn how to apply this information, be sure to check out the Additional Resources section associated with this video. This is where you'll find links targeted toward helping you discover more ways to apply this course material.