Assessment Tools and Program Identity: How Developmental Mentoring Became the Norm in One Educator Preparation Program

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Fourteen
  In Roundtable Session: Mentoring Programs for Higher Education Students and Faculty (Table 14)

Abstract

This is a mixed-method study that examines how one EPP designed an assessment tool to promote growth in teacher candidates. The tool became central to the identity of the program and foundational to the work of mentors. Data includes the statistical analysis of seven semesters of assessment data, substantiated by various forms of qualitative data. Research questions include: How do tools contribute to the identity of a program question? What value does using an internally-designed evaluation tool add to an educator preparation program? The findings indicate that the mentor's practices became more developmentally-oriented over time. This suggests that engaging in the process of creating, adapting, and using internally-designed instruments contributes to a shared identity that reflects the values of the program.

Authors

• Susan Brondyk, Hope College
  Presenting Author

• Nancy Cook, Hope College
  Presenting Author