National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

Definition

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is a non-profit organization that offers a certification process for teachers in the United States, aimed at advancing the quality of teaching and learning. This organization focuses on establishing high and rigorous standards for educators, promoting lifelong learning and ongoing professional growth among teachers through self-reflection and improvement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NBPTS was founded in 1987 to improve the quality of education by recognizing and certifying accomplished teachers.
2. To achieve National Board Certification, teachers must complete a comprehensive assessment process, including a portfolio of their work and classroom performance tasks.
3. National Board Certification is valid for five years, after which teachers must renew their certification to maintain their status.
4. Research has shown that students taught by National Board Certified Teachers often perform better academically than those taught by non-certified teachers.
5. The certification process encourages collaboration among teachers, as they often engage in discussions about their practices and seek feedback from peers.

Review Questions

• How does the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards promote lifelong learning among educators?
  • The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards promotes lifelong learning by providing a rigorous certification process that encourages teachers to reflect on their practice and seek continuous improvement. Through the completion of a portfolio and performance tasks, educators engage in self-assessment and peer collaboration, fostering an environment where ongoing professional growth is prioritized. This reflective process not only enhances their skills but also contributes to overall educational quality.
• What are the key components of the certification process established by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards?
  • The certification process established by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards includes several key components: a comprehensive portfolio that showcases a teacher's work, video recordings of classroom instruction, student assessments, and written reflections on teaching practices. These components are designed to assess a teacher's effectiveness and commitment to high standards in education. Successful completion of this process results in National Board Certification, signifying an educator's dedication to professional excellence.
• Evaluate the impact of National Board Certification on teaching quality and student outcomes in the educational system.
  • National Board Certification has a significant impact on teaching quality and student outcomes by establishing rigorous standards that teachers must meet to be recognized as accomplished educators. Research indicates that students of National Board Certified Teachers often demonstrate higher academic performance compared to those taught by non-certified teachers. Additionally, the process fosters a culture of reflective practice and collaboration among educators, leading to improved instructional strategies and ultimately benefiting student learning experiences across various educational settings.

Related terms

National Board Certification: A voluntary advanced certification for teachers that recognizes them as accomplished educators based on rigorous standards and assessments.

Professional Development: Continuous learning opportunities for teachers to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving their teaching practice.

Reflective Practice: An approach where educators critically assess their teaching methods and effectiveness, fostering personal and professional growth.