Refereed journal article or data article (A1)
Understanding Teacher Evaluation in Finland: A Professional Development Framework
List of Authors: Tarhan H, Karaman C, Kemppinen L, Aerila JA
Publisher: EDITH COWAN UNIV
Publication year: 2019
Journal: Australian Journal of Teacher Education
Journal name in source: AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF TEACHER EDUCATION
Journal acronym: AUST J TEACH EDUC
Article number: ARTN 3
Volume number: 44
Issue number: 4
Start page: 33
End page: 50
Number of pages: 18
ISSN: 1835-517X
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.14221/ajte.2018v44n4.3
URL: https://ro.ecu.edu.au/ajte/vol44/iss4/3/
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/40284769
This study explores the characteristics of the teacher evaluation model in Finland. Highlighting the unique qualities of the Finnish case, we also compare these teacher evaluation practices with the increasingly applied value-added model (VAM) for teacher evaluation across the globe. Our analysis revealed that the Finnish Model prioritises teacher empowerment and professional development by carrying out bottom-up evaluation practices. With a clear focus on teacher empowerment and professional development, this framework substantially differs from accountability measures such as VAM, which emphasize rigid data collection procedures and the use of standardized test scores to hold teachers accountable based on their students' academic performance. This study also revealed that professional development endeavours of teachers are highlighted as the key elements in Finnish teacher evaluation. Ongoing needs analyses for professional development also form the basis for assessing teachers in Finland.
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |