A Foundation for Evaluating Teacher Practice

In order for Australia to deliver high quality education to all students, it is important to focus upon the role of teachers. The Australian Institute for Teachers and School Leadership has produced a national Performance and Development Framework with essential elements that aim to improve the quality of teaching. It is now necessary to evaluate the tools that support teachers to receive feedback and reflect on their practice, while understanding the complexity of their classroom. This is particularly important in multicultural Australia, and for teachers who work in culturally diverse classrooms and require support in understanding cultural imperatives and approaches to learning. This paper will provide an overview of how the 3 year Evaluation of the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers supports an understanding of teaching in various contexts and across career stages. It will also offer insights into what “success” looks like in the eyes of the profession.