Best Practices

Taxonomy of “Best Practices”

One of the most effective tools to improve classroom instruction has been the “best practices.” These are teaching-learning methods that have been identified by researchers to result in the most effective learner outcomes. The EdFOCUS team has assembled the most notable of these “practices” into a user-friendly list or taxonomy. In addition, they have developed training to help every school make these “best practices” an integral part of its deep-culture and daily operation. Click here to go to the EdFOCUS Taxonomy of “Best Practices.”

“Best Practices” Unit Planning

EdFOCUS has developed a research-based planning format to help teachers organize the delivery and assessment of classroom instruction using techniques from the “best practices” research. Click here to go to the EdFOCUS format for “Unit Planning.”

Classroom Assessments

The EdFOCUS team provides training in how to develop valid, standards-based test items—both multiple choice and extended response. With the evolving technologies in testing, it is important that teachers develop classroom test items that are parallel to those found on the high-stakes tests. The EdFOCUS training includes numerous content area and grade level samples to help teachers in constructing these traditional tests. In addition, EdFOCUS provides training in Authentic or Performance Assessments, including examples developed by teachers for use in actual classrooms. Click here to go to the Classroom Assessments page.