Linda Darling-Hammond

Definition

Linda Darling-Hammond is an influential education scholar and policy expert, known for her work in teacher evaluation, educational equity, and standards-based education reform. Her research emphasizes the importance of effective teaching and the development of high-quality teacher education programs to improve student outcomes. She has also been a key advocate for the implementation of the Common Core State Standards and for redefining teacher accountability in ways that promote professional growth and better educational practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Darling-Hammond argues that strong teacher preparation is crucial for improving educational outcomes and reducing achievement gaps among students.
2. She has conducted extensive research on the impact of teacher evaluation systems, advocating for models that are comprehensive, fair, and supportive of teachers' growth.
3. Her work on the Common Core State Standards focuses on creating clear and rigorous expectations for what students should learn at each grade level.
4. Darling-Hammond emphasizes the role of collaboration and community in schools, promoting leadership models that involve teachers in decision-making processes.
5. She has served on various influential boards and committees aimed at reforming educational policy and improving teacher quality across the United States.

Review Questions

• How does Linda Darling-Hammond's work contribute to our understanding of effective teacher evaluation systems?
  • Linda Darling-Hammond's work highlights the need for teacher evaluation systems that not only assess performance but also support professional growth. She advocates for evaluations that include multiple measures such as classroom observations, student assessments, and teacher self-reflections. By emphasizing a holistic approach to evaluation, she aims to create systems that foster development rather than merely assigning ratings.
• In what ways does Darling-Hammond's research support the implementation of Common Core State Standards?
  • Darling-Hammond's research underscores the importance of high standards in improving educational outcomes. She supports the Common Core State Standards as a means to ensure all students have access to challenging curriculum aligned with 21st-century skills. Her findings suggest that when educators are well-prepared to implement these standards, students benefit from deeper learning experiences that can close achievement gaps.
• Evaluate how Linda Darling-Hammond's advocacy for educational equity intersects with her views on teacher quality and professional development.
  • Linda Darling-Hammond's advocacy for educational equity is deeply intertwined with her emphasis on teacher quality and professional development. She argues that equitable education systems require well-prepared teachers who can meet diverse student needs. By focusing on high-quality professional development, she believes teachers can develop the skills necessary to address inequities in their classrooms, ultimately leading to better outcomes for all students. This integrated approach supports both individual teacher growth and broader systemic changes needed for true educational equity.

Related terms

Teacher Quality: The effectiveness and competency of teachers in their roles, often linked to student achievement and overall school performance.

Professional Development: Ongoing education and training that teachers engage in to enhance their skills and effectiveness in the classroom.

Educational Equity: The principle of fairness in education, ensuring that all students have access to the resources, opportunities, and supports they need to succeed.