1. Introductory Training

Lecture, handouts, and AV activities. Includes:

• how the scales measure quality
• where and when the scales are used
• activities to help become somewhat familiar with the format and content of the scales
• some information about how scale requirements are to be interpreted
• instruction in scoring
• procedures for completing an observation

No assessment of participant competence is completed, and no credit is given for the course by the authors. Documentation of participation in the training may be offered.

2. Basic Training

Consists of the Introductory Training, plus two days of guided practice observations. Includes Level 1 and:

• 3-hour practice observations in an early childhood classroom with an experienced group leader
• Debriefing to discuss scores and interpretation of scale requirements
  

No assessment of participant competence is completed, and no credit is given for the course by the authors. Documentation of participation in the training is provided.

3. Summer Institute with some in-depth training

Consists of Levels 1 and 2, plus two days of lecture in which a select number of scale requirements are explained. Includes:

• Two 3-hour practice observations in an early childhood classroom with an experienced group leader
• Debriefing to discuss scores and interpretation of scale requirements
• Lecture on the interpretation of specific indicators, and what is required
  

No assessment of participant competence is completed, and no credit is given for the course by the authors. Documentation of participation in the training is provided.

4. Training to reliability with the authors

Designed for scale users who will be doing “high stakes” assessments, for example in quality rating systems, or program monitoring, and also for technical assistance staff using the scales in program quality improvement efforts.

Includes Levels 1 and 2 with 4 days of practice observations and debriefing plus:

• Training on how to calculate and document reliability
• Selection of the participant(s) who can work to bring others to acceptable reliability (reliability anchor or level 1 assessor)

Participant competence is determined by average of reliability across last three observations, and following of correct observation procedures. Documentation of participation in the training is provided. If requested, information on reliability scores of participants is made available to the agency sponsoring the training.

Additional days options include:

• additional days of observation/debriefing as needed until reliability is reached
• periodic reliability checks
• writing accurate and clear summary reports
• using the scales in technical assistance
• establishing QRS systems that include the scales
• procedures to ensure reliable and valid assessments

5. In-depth Course

Designed especially to enhance the skills of technical assistance (TA) providers using the scales to help improve the quality of children’s programs.

Each scale is covered in a separate 8 day course.
Pre-requisite is Level 1-2 or similar training, plus experience using the scale. Includes:

• Pretest to determine level of pre-course knowledge
• Lecture by an author and their associates, on the interpretation of specific indicators, the research and rationale for requirements, what is required to meet requirements
• Explanations about how to best use the scales in technical assistance efforts to maximize the effects of TA
• Discussions among participants
• A variety of hands-on activities to reinforce learning
• Post-test

As with any college-level course, the participant is expected to attend all portions of the course, have and read required materials, and study course content in order to pass the post-test.

Assessment of participant competence is completed through a post-test, and documentation of participation in the course will be provided.