Measuring teaching ability with the Rasch model by scaling a series of product and performance tasks

Rasch measurement can provide a much needed solution to scaling teacher ability. Typically, decisions about teacher ability are based on dichotomously scored certification tests focused on knowledge of content or pedagogy. This paper presents early developmental work of a partial-credit teacher-ability scale of 42 tasks (performances and products) with 348 rated items or criteria. The tasks and criteria are aligned with national and state standards for expected teacher knowledge and skills. These tasks are being used in about two-thirds of Florida school districts and are spreading to colleges of education. Over time there will be many variations in both tasks and criteria, but here we focus on the initial system and the Rasch model as part of the plan for development of the system.