Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have developed a clear conception of the range of purposes for teacher evaluation; be able to demonstrate an understanding of research on various schemes designed to relate pay to performance in teaching; be able to assess the validity and feasibility of approaches to setting standards for teaching: be able to examine critically emerging methods for the appraisal and evaluation of teaching.
Synopsis This subject critically examines recent developments in teacher evaluation for the purposes of professional development, accountability and promotion. Particular reference will be paid to the recent award restructuring for teachers and the introduction of an `advanced skills teacher' classification. We will look at a range of ways of conceptualising teacher evaluation and the policy contexts within which various schemes have been developed in Australia, the UK and the USA. Students will be expected to review research on a range of methods used for the evaluation of teaching. In addition, we will examine studies evaluating the implementation of teacher evaluation schemes in a number of school systems and school contexts within Australia and overseas. Implications for teacher evaluation policy at school and system levels will be examined.
Assessment Two individual assignments (2000 and 4000 words): 25% and 50% + or + One individual assignment and group project: 75% + Contribution to class discussion and learning: 25%