This nifty strategy that leaves "no superior teaching moment unrecorded" is accomplished by a hand-held computing device, and a behind the scenes server.
Unfortunately, the self-same device can be used by stress-focused, vendetta-prone, "I'll clean house of all undesirable teachers" principals.
So, how does this sneaky hand held computer system relate to stealth teaching methods?
Answer: Whether the principal/ evaluator is "packing an always on" evaluation device, whether the principal is Obsessive-Compulsive; whether the principal is still rooted in paper and pencil checklists; teachers must maintain vigilance to ensure that they perform in a stellar fashion each time that they are "vigilanced-against."
The principal with the paper and pencil checklist can accomplish as much as the principal with the hand held computer, only the hand held computer accomplishes more with less effort.
Whether the principal is supportive, a laissez faire leader that always looks at your sunny side; or a henchman planning to wipe out your job, you need the same strategy.
Teachers must conduct class (from the first student meeting) in an "always being watched," "always aware of the scrutiny" pretending that the "hidden cameras that are running" state of alertness.
Why Wouldn't a Principal want Such a Device?
Imagine if principals could:
- Always have access to student and teacher contact data
- Record observation data in real time, without having to connect to wireless systems
- Cut teacher evaluation and paperwork time in half
- Improve the teachers' evaluation reports by listing more details
- Have this system customized to the school district's evaluation conventions
And, for large campuses, principals can also have mobile student data that includes:
- Student attendance and schedules
- Student photos and IDs
- Student disciplinary records
- Parent contact information
What's more, the development company offers "no extra charge" for this customization and for their stellar technical support.
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Austin Sky
A Cynic's View of Evaluation
Evaluation of teachers is based more on belief and bias than on a perception of reality. And what principal, while conducting a drive-by evaluation; can grasp the skills, talents and abilities that a teacher has in play?
Just as sound bites have diminished our view (and our assessment) of political candidates, shrinking our perceptions around ten second sound clips...maybe 20 seconds if the media is biased in favor of the candidate...maybe 30 seconds if the media catches their "un favorite" candidate with a "colossal foot in his or her mouth."
The "thin slice of time" style of observation fails to animate a picture of a teacher's performance...not even as well as the stick figure drawing, thumbed for a fake animation, on the edge of a pad of paper.
The caution against the random sample, quickie observation is the same caution against evaluating a teacher based upon one or two high-stakes test days in April.
But, who can argue against saving time for the principal?
Principal's Challenges
Time-savings, less paper work, less work-related stress--in theory, this might mean a calm, cool, more hospitable and mellow principal.
But, these personal factors are more habit and conditioned behavioral responses than a reflection of the job situation.
What actually happens is that principals will still find their school day jammed to overflowing with attention-seeking issues and clamoring folks. Like the closet that is always full, no matter how large we build it; principals' workdays expand to fill every crack and cranny.
So, stresses never leave the presence of campus principals, and wishing for principals to mellow into a jovial mood is fantasy.
However, if the principal can complete an observation with less work, then at that particular moment, the likelihood that the principal might project that irritation and discomfort upon the teacher that s being observed is lessened.
So, making it easier for a principal to conduct the observation seems to at least level the playing field for the teacher, instead of amassing obstacles that aggravate the referee (principal).
Summary
So, look into easing the evaluation load on your favorite principal by advocating the use of hand-held tools. Your principal will thank you for it…although your next evaluation may fail to show that undying gratitude.
