Assessing Candidate Dispositions Throughout an Educator Preparation Program

Abstract

In addition to content knowledge and practical skills, certification candidates should demonstrate an understanding of dispositions—the professional behaviors that must be evident in their interactions with students, families, colleagues, and communities. However, it is challenging to monitor and assess dispositions without a formal process that teaches candidates the dispositions they are expected to demonstrate and provides feedback at specific points in certification preparation. This chapter will provide a detailed process for teaching, monitoring, and assessing dispositions within an educator preparation program (EPP) to develop candidates who exhibit professional behaviors prior to entering an educational role.