http://www.loc.gov/mods/v3 http://www.loc.gov/standards/mods/v3/mods-3-2.xsd
reliability of the classroom observation system
The purpose of this investigation was to assess the reliability of the Classroom Observation System (COS) used in the Alternative Certification Program at Texas A&M University. Reliability of this pre-developed observation instrument was investigated thoroughly because observation has become an inevitable method to determine teacher effectiveness during the last decade. In this investigation, several recommendations for enhancing reliability of observation measures were synthesized from the literature and applied for establishing the reliability of the COS. Efforts included refining the COS through pilot testing and revision; conducting rigorous observer training; and using adequate sampling and data collection procedures. Subsequently, reliability measures were used to determine the effects of those efforts. In addition, the effects of varying sampling techniques and calculation algorithms on interobserver agreement were also investigated. Multiple assessments were applied to ensure that various aspects of observation when using the COS were investigated. Particular emphases were placed on observers' accuracy and stability, and the reliability and stability of observational measures. Results of this investigation indicate that observers can be trained to use the COS with acceptable levels of accuracy and stability. The overall reliability of the observational measures obtained by using the COS was found to be acceptable with the observational measures being stable across occasions. Finally, sampling techniques and calculation algorithms were found to affect the interobserver agreement coefficients which confirmed reports from other research findings.
"Major subject: Curriculum and instruction."