CLASS: Optimizing Reliability and Validity

Optimizing the Reliability and Validity of Classroom Assessments

The Classroom Assessment Scoring System™ (CLASS™) is an observational instrument developed by CASTL researchers to assess classroom quality in PK-12 classrooms. It describes multiple dimensions of teaching that are linked to student achievement and development and has been validated in over 2,000 classrooms. The CLASS™ can be used to reliably assess classroom quality for research and program evaluation and also provides a tool to help new and experienced teachers become more effective

In this study, investigators will further test the reliability of the instrument by randomly assigning classroom observations to different coding procedures, comparing reliabilities across coding procedures and CLASS domains, and examining whether coding procedures affect the validity of inferences about the CLASS.

Project Status: Active through 2012

Funding Source: William T. Grant Foundation

Principal Investigator: Andrew Mashburn