The edTPA (Educator Performance Assessment) is a rigorous assessment for aspiring teachers, demanding a high level of professionalism and evidence-based practice. A critical component of a successful edTPA submission involves effectively using credible sources to support your claims and analyses. Simply stating your observations isn't enough; you must demonstrate your understanding of educational theory and research by quoting and citing relevant authorities. This post will guide you through the process, addressing common questions and providing effective strategies for incorporating authoritative support into your edTPA.
How Do I Choose Appropriate Authorities for My edTPA?
Selecting the right authorities is crucial. You need sources that directly relate to your teaching practices and the specific claims you're making. Avoid vague or generalized statements; instead, find research articles, books, or educational theorists whose work directly supports your methods and analyses.
Consider these types of sources:
- Peer-reviewed journal articles: These offer strong empirical evidence and are highly valued in academic settings.
- Books on educational theory and practice: Classics in the field provide foundational knowledge and established perspectives.
- Government reports and educational policy documents: These offer insights into current educational trends and best practices.
- Professional organizations' publications: Organizations like the ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) and NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) provide valuable resources.
What are the Best Ways to Quote Authorities in My edTPA?
Simply dropping in a quote isn't enough. You need to seamlessly integrate quotes into your writing, using them to illustrate and support your points.
- Introduce the quote: Before inserting a quote, provide context. Briefly explain who the author is and what their expertise is relevant to your claim.
- Use appropriate quotation marks: Accurately quote the source material, ensuring exact wording.
- Cite your source: Use a consistent citation style (APA, MLA, etc.) throughout your edTPA.
- Analyze the quote: After presenting the quote, explain how it supports your claim. Connect the quote back to your observations and analysis. Don't just leave the quote hanging; explain its significance.
How Many Authorities Should I Cite in My edTPA?
There's no magic number, but aim for a balance. Too few citations might suggest a lack of research, while too many could make your writing cumbersome and difficult to read. Focus on quality over quantity. Each quote should meaningfully contribute to your argument and analysis.
What if I Can't Find an Authority Directly Supporting My Claim?
This is a common challenge. If you can't find a direct match, consider using sources that offer related concepts or provide supporting evidence indirectly. You can also use sources to refute a counter-argument. Always clearly explain the connection between the source and your claim.
Are There Specific Authorities I Should Look To For My edTPA?
The best authorities will vary depending on your specific teaching context, grade level, and subject area. However, some widely respected names in education include:
- Jean Piaget: Known for his work on cognitive development.
- Lev Vygotsky: Focused on sociocultural theory and the zone of proximal development.
- Howard Gardner: Developed the theory of multiple intelligences.
- John Dewey: A significant influence on progressive education.
These are just a few examples. Researching prominent figures in your specific subject area will also be highly beneficial.
How Can I Avoid Plagiarism When Quoting Authorities?
Always properly cite your sources. Paraphrasing without attribution is considered plagiarism, even if you change a few words. If you're unsure about proper citation, consult your university's style guide or seek assistance from a librarian or writing center. Accuracy and ethical practice are paramount.
By carefully selecting, integrating, and analyzing quotes from relevant authorities, you can significantly strengthen your edTPA and demonstrate your understanding of best practices in education. Remember, the goal is not just to cite sources but to use them effectively to support your claims and showcase your pedagogical knowledge.
