Consent Form

Kimberly Simmons

North Carolina Educator Evaluation Consultant

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Principal Investigator (PI): Kimberly Simmons, N.C. Educator Evaluation Consultant

Phone: 828-406-9237

Project Title: Observation Calibration Training (OCT) Pilot

Purpose of Study:

You are invited to participate with no obligation in a research study intended to describe the Observation Calibration Training (OCT) pilot as a professional development intervention strategy for North Carolina participating administrators observing and evaluating teachers. The Purpose of the research for the Observation Calibration Training is to determine the variables that create a successful implementation of professional development ultimately resulting in improved teacher evaluations.

The pilot allows administrators to watch classroom videos, observe instruction, and score teachers using the North Carolina Educator Evaluation System rubric that is used to evaluate all teachers in North Carolina. Participants receive immediate feedback as to the suggested ratings and supporting evidence for that particular rating.

Description of Participation:

If you choose to participate in this research I will use data generated within the pilot to evaluate and research trends and performance of participants. There will not be any additional assignments if you choose to have your data as part of the research. The research will last the length of the pilot plus two additional months where we may survey or solicit information from you regarding your experience.

I will use the pre-assessment and post assessment data collected during the scoring studies and the 34 video lessons. I will also use survey data along with notes taken during virtual and non-virtual sessions.

There is no risk of harm to you, or your professional status, if you take part in the study.

Information gathered from the study will guide future support of administrators observing and evaluating teachers to support their professional growth.

Confidentiality:

To protect your confidentiality, I will not attach any names to the study. Your answers, performance and feedback will be anonymous.

There is no risk of harm to you, or your professional status, if you take part in the study.

Information gathered from the study will guide future support of administrators observing and evaluating teachers to support their professional growth.

Voluntary Participation:

Your participation is strictly voluntary. If you decide not to participate there will be no penalties or negative consequences. You may choose to withdraw from the study at any time. If you choose to withdraw, all data relevant to you will be destroyed.

If you have questions, please contact the Principal Investigator Kimberly Simmons, at the above phone number or by email before signing this form. If you have questions or concerns regarding your rights as a research participant, you may also contact the chair of the WCU Institutional Review Board at 828-227-7212. Do not sign this form until these questions have been answered to your satisfaction.

YOU ARE MAKING A DECISION WHETHER OR NOT TO ALLOW THE PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR TO USE YOUR PARTICIPATION DATA FOR RESEARCH AND PRESENTATION PURPOSES ONLY. YOUR SIGNATURE BELOW ALSO INDICATES THAT YOU ARE OVER THE AGE OF 18.

In lieu of a signature, please access the link below to submit your response to participate in this research study. Whether you are choosing to participate or not, please access the link below to respond. Thank you so much.

(The information below will be in a google doc)

I am over the age of 18.

Yes

No

Choose a statement below:

I AGREE to participate in this research study.

I DO NOT AGREE to participate in this research study.

Participant’s name (please print) ______Date: ______

Participant’s Signature: ______