Consider Peter Drucker's timeless adage, "What gets measured gets improved." To improve the teacher candidate rate of success, preparation providers must understand the value of collected candidate and program data, measure the candidates at critical program intervals, and use the results to inform decisions and provide data-driven support. The EPiC™ Support Dashboard encompasses a suite of powerful tools designed to enhance teacher preparation, assess performance, and provide targeted professional learning while simultaneously gathering accreditation data for preparation providers. In this blog post, we will delve into the components of the EPiC™ Support Dashboard, shedding light on its key features and the transformative impact it can have on teacher candidate preparation.
EPiC™ Key Assessment
At the heart of the EPiC™ Support Dashboard lies the EPiC™ Key Assessment, a rigorously validated performance assessment tool for teacher candidates. This comprehensive performance assessment is divided into ten InTASC-aligned rubrics and skillfully organized into two parts: Planning & Instruction (Part A) and Assessment & Analysis (Part B). Its versatility sets the EPiC™ Key Assessment apart, allowing in-house evaluators to generate rubric scores manually or automatically based on evidence keys or "markers" selected during the scoring process. This adaptability ensures a nuanced and accurate evaluation of teacher candidates' performance.
LoTi® Survey for Teacher Candidates
To gain insights into teacher candidates' self-perceived instructional technology practices, the EPiC™ Support Dashboard incorporates the LoTi® Survey for Teacher Candidates. The LoTi® Survey for Teacher Candidates collects ongoing technology and instruction data aligned with the InTASC, ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), and CAEP Standards. This empirically validated survey collects self-assessment data at the beginning, middle, and end of the teacher preparation program. By tracking program perceptions and technology integration practices, preparation providers can tailor their coaching support to meet the evolving needs of teacher candidates, fostering a tech-savvy and adaptable teaching force.
EPP Candidate Observation
To verify and validate teacher candidates' and completers' preparation experiences, the EPiC™ Support Dashboard includes the EPP Candidate Observation tool—a simple online/mobile tool for collecting clinical experience data. Aligned with the InTASC Standards, Danielson Framework for Teaching, ISTE Standards for Educators, and the LoTi® Framework, this tool utilizes simplified "look-fors" for efficient and comprehensive observations. The result is robust, research-based data that aids in identifying strengths and areas for growth, empowering teacher candidates to refine their skills and knowledge.
PD Bytes™ Online Courses
To provide personalized coaching and support for teacher candidates, the EPiC™ Support Dashboard includes a library of PD Bytes™ online courses. These “byte-sized”, self-paced online courses provide practical professional learning for candidates needing extra support. Covering a single best practice classroom strategy, each PD Byte equips teachers with downloadable resources and templates, guiding them through implementation in their classrooms. The flexibility of PD Bytes™ ensures that educators can engage in meaningful professional learning at their own pace, whether during a prep period, at home, or in a PLC meeting.
Conclusion
The EPiC™ Support Dashboard emerges as a comprehensive and innovative solution for teacher preparation, assessment, and professional learning. By seamlessly integrating validated assessments, surveys, observation tools, and byte-sized online courses, this dashboard offers a holistic, evidence-based approach to teacher training, ensuring that educators are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern classroom.
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