Assessing teacher pedagogical knowledge: the Video Assessment of Teacher Knowledge (VATK)

ABSTRACT

This study examines the creation and implementation of a video-based assessment of teacher knowledge of effective teaching called the Video Assessment of Teacher Knowledge (VATK). The VATK was developed with the intention of creating an easily administered, standardised assessment that can potentially provide information on teacher candidate knowledge of teaching at important points during their training programmes and into the teaching field. The theoretical framework upon which the VATK was developed and the process for item creation are described. Classical test theory and item response theory analysis were conducted to determine the measure’s potential for use in future studies. Analyses indicate that after some questions are removed, the measure is sensitive to differences in teachers’ pedagogical knowledge.

KEYWORDS:

• Video
• assessment
• teacher preparation
• teacher noticing
• item response theory
• teacher expertise

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas [Assessment Mini Grant].

Notes on contributors

Peter D. Wiens

Peter D. Wiens, Ph.D., is Assistant Professor of Teacher Education in the Department of Teaching and Learning at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His research focuses on the assessment of teacher education outcomes and preservice teacher learning including the lasting effects of teacher preparation on instructional outcomes.

Jori S. Beck

Jori S. Beck, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Secondary Education in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Old Dominion University. Her research interests focus on clinical teacher preparation broadly with emphases in Third Space partnerships, data literacy for teaching, and equity.

Christina J. Lunsmann

Christina J. Lunsmann, Ph.D., is the Program Coordinator for the University of South Carolina, Sumter’s teacher education program through USC Aiken. Her work focuses on teacher preparation with specific attention to democratic teaching practices, constructivism, and mentorship.