Contemporary Issues in Accreditation, Assessment, and Program Evaluation Research in Educator Preparation

By considering ways in which researchers have investigated educator preparation within the context of increased expectations in accreditation and program approval, the series will contribute to conversations on how to best facilitate faculty engagement in re-imagining and reforming the preparation of educators, will share strategies for aligning curriculum, assessment, and accreditation requirements, and add to the public’s understanding of research initiatives within the field of educator preparation. 

The series will be comprehensive in addressing research focusing not only on aspects of teacher preparation for K-12 schools, but also on preparation of educational leaders and service professionals, and on the quality, reform, and effectiveness of programs for educators seeking advanced preparation. Topic within the series may include (a) research examining implementation and analysis of new curricular innovations, assessments, or practices within educator preparation, (b) inquires focusing on faculty engagement, resistance, and participation in accreditation and program approval processes, (c) analysis of the impact of policy changes on educator preparation, and (d) impact of reform drivers such as nationally funded centers on curriculum innovation and program effectiveness. The intended audience of this series will include university faculty, researchers, and administrators in traditional educator preparation institutions as well as school district level mentors, alternative program providers, and policy makers at state and federal levels.