Cross-Cutting Theme: Technology
VCU and the EPP provide candidates with the environment to create high quality, technology-infused learning experiences in the classroom. Technology Services is responsible for centralized academic and administrative computing, including applications and services (e.g., Canvas, Wi-Fi). Classrooms are equipped with Panopto video capture systems, SmartBoards, and document cameras. https://ts.vcu.edu/media/technology-services/assets/content-assets/documents/VCUTechnologyGuide.pdf
VCU Library offers open access to computers, Pay-4Print laser printers, scanners, and adaptive equipment for users with disabilities. Candidates routinely use library research databases, digital media, and other digital tools as resources for their own growth and preparation.
The Center for Teaching & Learning Excellence assists faculty to enhance teaching effectiveness and student learning through faculty development, including the integration of technology in instruction.
The SOE Office of Information Technology offers small equipment for use in the classroom and field setting (e.g., video cameras, lavaliere mics, tripods, laptops, audio recorders).
Standard 1/A.1
Initial and advanced programs meet a technology competency through a designated course or by embedding the competency in content courses (1). Each program aligns to state and CAEP technology standards. Interwoven throughout the initial preparation programs, candidates utilize technology in a variety of formats to differentiate instruction and accommodate the needs of diverse learners. Some examples include 1) TEDU 517, Elementary program candidates conduct research projects and experiments to understand the relationship of science to mathematics, the design process, and utilize technology to monitor, ensure, and enhance student performance in science. 2) Visual Arts candidates take a field trip toTraining and Technical Assistance Center (TTAC) in ARTE 450 to explore and reflect on the use of assistive technology. 3) Candidates in ECSE 500 develop an intervention plan individualized for an early childhood student with special speech/language needs; the plan includes augmentative communication and assistive technology strategies as needed. As evidenced in the scope and sequence summary for clinical experiences in initial programs (38), and in alignment with Standard 3, programs use multiple technologies (Canvas, InSights, Wordpress, REDCap, Tk20, DegreeWorks, Canvas) to collect data on candidate performance and monitor progress through clinical experiences. This includes candidates' submissions of performance artifacts, peer review of performance, and feedback cycles from mentor and cooperating teachers, as well as program faculty. Candidates also use technology in clinical placements to enhance student learning. For example, Visual Art candidates demonstrate to their students how to use technology in art marking. Elementary candidates integrate technology into their one-on-one tutoring and use PowerPoint during practicum. All candidates demonstrate acceptable or target level skills in planning for and integrating technology in pedagogy as demonstrated at mid-program lessons and clinical continuum (2.1-2.3; 3). Similarly, A.1 alignment tables (12) demonstrate advanced candidate means to develop skills for technology integration into the profession. Included is the use of technology for math computations such as calculators and virtual manipulatives (Math Specialist); use of appropriate technology systems for data collection, management, analysis, and monitoring of candidate progress (A&S).
Standard 2/A.2
The EPP facilitates technology-based collaboration using its data management assessment systems. Tk20 enables the performance evaluation of candidates by clinical partners (38). Using the Field Experience module, cooperating mentor teachers and university supervisors use the Clinical Evaluation Continuum (CEC) in candidate evaluation. Tk20 generates assessment reports for continuous improvement. Clinical experience survey data (Principal Evaluation of Candidates in Internship, Cooperating Teacher / University Supervisor peer evaluations, and Candidate Evaluation of Clinical Experience (28, 29, 30) are collected using REDCap, or Tk20. Finally, rGrade is used for tracking, selection, and matching of cooperating teachers and clinical faculty for the culminating clinical experiences (31, 32).
Standards 3/A.3
Technology is integral to the evaluation of programs' effectiveness related to admission, recruitment, and retention of candidates. Tk20, Insights, Banner, REDCap, and rGrade support key data collection and aggregation with reports to guide decision making for upcoming admissions, placements, and endorsements (85.1).
All candidates utilize TK20 to submit program and licensure documentation. The EPP implemented the launch of Tk20 in spring of 2020 for submitting and reviewing admission applications to teacher education preparation (Gate 1) including the collection of candidate self-reported disposition assessment. This innovation was extremely valuable in maintaining Gate 1 application collection and review during our transition to remote office structures in response to COVID 19.
VCU EPP prioritizes technology skills so that candidates engage students and improve learning. As evidenced in Standards 1, A.1, 2, A.2, and 3, A.3, VCU EPP demonstrates this commitment not only to candidate performance in technology integration through pedagogy and experiences but in employing technology in creative ways to collaborate and engage partners, facilitating co-construction of curricular and clinical experiences to support high-quality educator preparation.
Summary of Evidence and Supporting Documentation:
- 2.1: n_10 CAEP Initial Standard 1, 1.1 Component, InTASC Data Tables, 2017-18 (Mid-Lesson & Continuum)
- 2.2: n_10 CAEP Initial Standard 1, 1.1 Component, InTASC Data Tables, 2018-19 ( Mid-Lesson & Continuum)
- 2.3: n_10 CAEP Initial Standard 1, 1.1 Component, InTASC Data Tables, 2019-20
- 3: CAEP Initial Standard 1, 1.2-1.5 Data Tables, 2017-2020 ( Mid-Lesson & Continuum)
- 12: A.1.1 - VCU Advanced CAEP Standards Alignment Tables
- 85.1: VCU EPP Quality Assurance System Handbook
- TK20 Assessment Software
- 38: VCU Initial Clinical Scope and Sequence
- 45: VCU Advanced Clinical Experience scope and sequence
- VCU's institutional information and data analytics platform
- Degree Works: VCU's web-based degree audit tool
- Canvas