THE IMPORTANCE OF MEANINGFUL STAFF DEVELOPMENT

Providing teacher feedback that encourages rather than discourages remains a challenge for many administrators. Far too often, administrative evaluations are viewed as a tedious task that must be duly accomplished rather than viewed for what they truly are—a critical professional tool that can help to shape the organization as a whole, and, more importantly, change the trajectory of the lives of children. Effective feedback is where learning begins, both for adults and for children.

Literature suggests that assessment is not only important for students but also for enhancing teachers’ teaching (Black & William, 2009; Black et al., 2004; Nicol & Macfarlane-Dick, 2009; Shute, 2008). The reflexive action of reflecting upon feedback allows consideration of what is happening in the moment and what might happen in the future. This allows one to respond to insights and to improve teaching practice and the inclusive nature of the classroom (Carrington & MacArthur, 2012). This holds true for administrative assessments of teacher performance.

There are several important steps that must be undertaken to utilize teacher evaluations to maintain and improve instruction. Credibility of the administrators themselves is key. Additionally, evaluation tools and methods must be scientifically valid and reliable. It is essential that all educators understand what “valid” and “reliable” means regarding assessment practices, both for themselves and for their students. There must be an evidence-based and consistent definition of “good teaching.” The quality of questioning techniques, test construction, and neurobiologically-based active participation methods must be understood by all parties. These concepts should be actively explored by staff members. This can be accomplished via one-to-one conferences, whole group meetings, district-wide initiatives, and both in- and out-of-house professional development endeavors. It is recommended that information regarding neuroscience, teaching, and learning be disseminated, read, and discussed regularly.

There is power in effective feedback. It can be one of the most positive influences on learning and achievement. “Where am I going?”, “How am I going?”, and “What is next?” can be weighty but influential questions. The importance of teacher evaluations and feedback cannot be discounted, as these give educators the opportunity to receive meaningful and direct information about their practices. Observations help to link quality improvement resources to positive outcomes for administrators, teachers, and students. A well-designed observation system can assist in addressing all of these factors. Only when such a system is in place can systemic change occur for the ultimate betterment of children’s learning experiences.