Introduction of a Self-Assessment Tool for Teacher Knowledge of Early Literacy

• In Event: Research Focused on Early Literacy Developmental Factors

Abstract

The importance of early literacy education has been well demonstrated for decades, and there are various tools to support students’ early literacy skills. However, there has been less effort to develop tools or approaches to guide teachers to improve early literacy instruction. This study introduces a valid and reliable assessment tool to measure teacher knowledge of student content engagement for teachers of beginning reading, and to support teachers to improve early literacy instruction. Results from a validation study examining the relationship between teacher knowledge (measured by the assessment tool introduced in this study) and students’ literacy skills (measured by DIBELS) will be discussed in addition to a demonstration of how to use this tool.

Authors

• Bitnara Jasmine Park, American Institutes for Research

• Ashley Miller, American Institutes for Research

• Terry S. Salinger, American Institutes for Research