Teachstone

Become a Certified CLASS™ Observer

CLASS™ Observer Certification ensures that observers have undergone in-depth CLASS™ observation training and demonstrated that they are reliable with the CLASS™ tool by passing the CLASS™ reliability test. Certified CLASS™ Observers view teacher-child interactions through the same CLASS™ lens and assign CLASS™ codes accurately across education settings.

The first step toward becoming a Certified CLASS™ Observer is registering for and completing a CLASS™ Observation Training. Those who pass the CLASS™ reliability test are certified to use the CLASS™ tool to observe and code classrooms. They receive a Teachstone Certified CLASS™ Observer Certificate that is valid for one year.

Certified CLASS™ Observers must recertify annually to maintain their certification status.

Steps to Observer Certification

1. Complete CLASS™ Observation Training.
2. Prepare for the reliability test by reading the manual and recoding training videos.
3. Take and pass the CLASS™ reliability test.
4. Recertify annually.

How Do I Prepare for Observer Recertification?

The effectiveness of the CLASS™ tool relies heavily on the accuracy and consistency of its users. Observing and coding reliably with the CLASS™ tool is more like learning a new language than learning how to ride a bike—it takes ongoing practice and training to retain the skill. Before you begin the recertification process, think about how much you have used the CLASS™ tool since your initial observation training to evaluate how much preparation you need to maintain your status as a Certified CLASS™ Observer.

Several supports are available as part of the recertification process to help you refresh your CLASS™ knowledge, sharpen your CLASS™ lens, and practice your observation and coding skills. Observers who feel they would benefit from more in-depth CLASS™ training should consider registering for another CLASS™ Observation Training prior to recertification.

Steps to Observer Recertification

1. Check your observer certification status.
   • Login to your CLASS account.
   • Scroll down to the Training and Certification section.
   • Click on the Certificates link to check your certification status.
2. If it’s time for you to recertify, consult the Recertification Timeline and decide what level of preparation best meets your needs.
3. Register and pay for recertification.
   • Login to your CLASS account.
   • Scroll down to the Training and Certification section.
   • Click on the Recertification test link.

   Access the online supports and prepare for the reliability test (you have six weeks to complete recertification).

4. Take and pass the CLASS reliability test.
5. Recertify annually.

Login to begin the recertification process.

Become a Certified CLASS™ Trainer

Trainer certification assures that trainers know the CLASS™ tool well enough to consistently deliver effective CLASS™ programs. Certified CLASS™ Trainers are Certified CLASS™ Observers who undergo an in-depth Train-the-Trainer program to achieve their trainer certification.

CLASS™ Affiliate Trainers are key partners in maintaining the integrity of the tool. Participants who complete the CLASS™ Train-the-Trainer program are certified to provide the following programs to those working within their organizations:

• Introduction to the CLASS™
• CLASS™ Observation Training

Steps to Trainer Certification

1. Become a Certified CLASS™ Observer
2. Register for and complete the CLASS™ Train-the-Trainer Program
3. Become a Provisional CLASS™ Trainer for one year
4. Recertify annually

What is Trainer Recertification?

Annual recertification ensures that CLASS™ trainers maintain their CLASS™ reliability and content knowledge. Observing and coding reliably with the CLASS™ tool is more like learning a new language than learning how to ride a bike—it takes ongoing practice and training to retain the skill. Several supports are available as part of the recertification process to help you refresh your CLASS™ knowledge, sharpen your CLASS™ lens, and practice your observation and coding skills. To recertify, trainers must demonstrate their knowledge by successfully completing the following tasks:

• Reliably code five videos.
• Achieve an 80% or above on the CLASS™ knowledge test.

As we build the recertification program, we’ll broaden the recertification criteria to include training evaluations and participant pass rates.

Steps to Trainer Recertification

1. Check your trainer certification status.
   • Login to your CLASS account.
   • Scroll down to the Training and Certification section.
   • Click on the Certificates link to check your certification status.
2. If it’s time for you to recertify, consult the Recertification Timeline and decide what level of preparation best meets your needs.
3. Register and pay for recertification.
   • Login to your CLASS account.
   • Scroll down to the Training and Certification section.
   • Click on the Recertification test link.

   Access the online supports and prepare for the reliability test (you have six weeks to complete recertification).

4. Take and pass the CLASS reliability test.
5. Take and pass the Trainer Knowledge test.
6. Recertify annually.

Login to begin the recertification process.

• What is a Certified CLASS™ Observer?
  A Certified CLASS™ Observer is a person who has been trained on the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS™) tool and who has passed a CLASS™ Reliability Test within the past year. A Certified CLASS™ Observer has demonstrated a solid understanding of the CLASS™ tool and is qualified to code classrooms using the CLASS™ tool.
• How do I become a Certified CLASS™ Observer?
  To become a Certified CLASS™ Observer, you must take the CLASS™ Observation Training and pass the CLASS™ Reliability Test. For information on training options, visit the Training area of the website. For more information on the certification process, see the Certification section of the website.
• What are the technical requirements for completing online certification?
  A high-speed Internet connection and the latest version of the Flash player are required to complete your test. More tech FAQs can be found here.

   

• What is the format of the reliability test?
  During the reliability test, you will watch and code five videos. Each video is approximately 15-20 minutes long. We recommend that you not complete all five videos in one sitting; but rather, watch and score them over a period of a few days. The CLASS™ reliability test must be taken on your own, without assistance from anyone else. You may refer to your CLASS™ manual and notes while taking the test. You will have three opportunities to pass the reliability test.
• When will I receive my scores and feedback from the test?
  It’s important for reliability testing that your coding is both accurate and consistent across classrooms; for that reason, when you take the reliability test, feedback and scores are not provided until you have scored all five videos. If you are looking for additional feedback and practice before taking the reliability test, remember to review and code the videos shown during your training.
• What are the criteria for passing the CLASS™ reliability test?
  Observers must take and pass the CLASS™ reliability test without assistance from anyone else. 80% of all your codes must be within one of the master code, and within each dimension, at least 2 out of 5 codes must be within one of the master code.
• I didn’t pass the Reliability I Test. What should I do now?
  You have three attempts to achieve CLASS™ reliability. If you do not succeed on your first attempt, we strongly recommend that you consult your trainer, your CLASS™ manual, and your training materials before attempting the Reliability II Test. Your trainer will be able to review your scores and provide guidance.
• What happens if I am unsuccessful in achieving certification?
  If you are unsuccessful in achieving reliability after all three tests, you must wait one year to enroll in another CLASS™ Observation Training. At that time, you’ll be able to attempt reliability testing again.
• How long does my CLASS™ Observer Certification last?
  CLASS™ Observer Certification is valid for one year from the date of passing the CLASS™ Reliability Test. An annual recertification test is required to maintain current CLASS™ Observer status.
• May I give CLASS™ trainings with this certification?
  No, CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer Certification is required for those wishing to train others on the CLASS™ tool. See the Trainer Certification tab.

Observer Recertification

• How do I register and pay for observer recertification?
  Individual registrants who are eligible for observer recertification may register online. Upon login, under the Training & Certification section you will see a “Recertification Test” box where you can pay for your recertification test.

  Group or multiple registrations can be made using the order form. Fill out the form, print and fax to Teachstone.

   

• I do not remember my log-in information; what should I do?
  Your email address is your User ID. If you do not remember your password, you may retrieve it here.
• Why do I need to recertify?
  The effectiveness of the CLASS™ tool relies heavily on the accuracy and consistency of its users. Observing and coding reliably with the CLASS™ tool is more like learning a new language than learning how to ride a bike—it takes ongoing practice and training to retain the skill. Recertification ensures that Certified CLASS™ Observers remain reliable with the CLASS™ tool.
• How do I find out my observer certification status?
  Check your observer certification status by logging in to your account and clicking on “Certification” in the section on Training Resources at the bottom of the page.
• How do I prepare for observer recertification?
  Maintaining CLASS™ certification requires an ongoing commitment. If you haven’t been using the CLASS™ tool regularly since your initial training, plan to spend additional time coding practice videos, reading the CLASS™ manual, and familiarizing yourself with the CLASS™ Video Library. As part of the recertification package, you have access to several helpful resources for practice and studying, including a suggested timeline, practice videos, a dimension review, and coding FAQs. Log in to your account and visit the Recertification Test & Prep page to view these resources and additional information and supports.
• How long do I have to complete the observer recertification test once I register?
  You have 6 weeks to take the recertification test from the time you register.
• What are the technical requirements for completing online recertification?
  A high-speed Internet connection and the latest version of the Flash player are required to complete your test. More tech FAQs are available here.
• What is the format of the observer recertification test?
  Your recertification test will be similar to the reliability test you took at the completion of your original CLASS™ Observation Training. During the recertification test, you will watch and code five videos. Each video is approximately 15-20 minutes long. We recommend that you not complete all five videos in one sitting; but rather, watch and score them over a period of a few days. The CLASS™ recertification test must be taken on your own, without assistance from anyone else. You may refer to your CLASS™ manual and notes while taking the test. You will have three opportunities to pass the recertification test.
• When will I receive my scores and feedback from the test?
  It’s important for reliability testing that your coding is both accurate and consistent across classrooms; for that reason, when you take the recertification test, feedback and scores are not provided until you have scored all five videos. If you are looking for additional feedback and practice before taking the recertification test, review and code the practice videos on the Recertification page.
• What are the criteria for passing recertification?
  The criteria for recertification are the same as for your initial observer certification. That is, 80% of all your codes must be within one point of the master code, and within each dimension, at least 2 out of 5 codes must be within one point of the master code.
• I didn’t pass Recertification I. What should I do now?
  In the event that your scores do not meet these criteria, you may take a second recertification test. We encourage you to closely read the automated feedback you received on the first test, and then use the resources and supports on your account’s Recertification page to strengthen your CLASS™ knowledge and coding skills. We require that you wait at least 48 hours before taking the second test, which also consists of coding 5 segments.
• What happens if I am unsuccessful in achieving recertification?
  If you are unsuccessful in achieving recertification after all three tests, you may enroll in another CLASS™ Observation Training. At that time, you’ll be able to attempt reliability testing again.
• How long does my observer recertification last?
  You will be recertified for one year from the date you pass your recertification test. An annual recertification test is required to maintain Certified CLASS™ Observer status.

Trainer Certification

• How do I become a CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer?
  Becoming a CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer requires the following steps:

  1. Successful completion of CLASS™ Observation Training
  2. Current Certified CLASS™ Observer status (a passing score within the past twelve months on either the CLASS™ Reliability Test or the CLASS™ Recertification Test)
  3. Experience using the CLASS™ tool (minimum of 10 CLASS™ Observations)
  4. Successful completion of the CLASS™ Train the Trainer Program
• What types of trainings may a Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer deliver?
  A Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer is qualified to lead the Introduction to the CLASS™ and to give the CLASS™ Observation Training to colleagues within his/her own organization.
• How long does my CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer certification last?
  CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer Certification is valid for one year from the date you complete the Train-the-Trainer program. Annual trainer recertification is required to maintain Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer status.
• Whom may I train once I am a Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer?
  A Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer may give the CLASS™ Observation Training to colleagues within his/her own organization.
• May I charge for CLASS™ trainings that I give?
  Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainers may conduct trainings only within their own organizations and may not charge participants for CLASS™ trainings.
• What training materials will I need as a Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer and how much will they cost?
  Some training materials are included in the cost of the CLASS™ Train the Trainer Program, while others will need to be purchased each time you deliver a training. Please contact Teachstone to discuss your individual situation and receive an estimate of training materials costs.
• I am a consultant. Whom may I train, if I become a CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer?
  CLASS™ Affiliate Trainers may train only within their own organization. Consultants may be granted an exception to this rule if they are contracted with one organization and train only within that organization. Permission is granted on a case-by-case basis after application in writing to Teachstone.

Trainer Recertification

• How do I register and pay for trainer recertification?
  Individual registrants who are eligible for trainer recertification may register online. Upon login, under the Training & Certification section you will see a “Recertification Test” box where you can pay for your recertification test.

  Group or multiple registrations can be made using the order form. Fill out the form, print and fax to Teachstone.

   

• I do not remember my log-in information; what should I do?
  Your email address is your User ID. If you do not remember your password, you may retrieve it here.
• Why do I need to recertify?
  The effectiveness of the CLASS™ tool relies heavily on the accuracy and consistency of its users. Observing and coding reliably with the CLASS™ tool is more like learning a new language than learning how to ride a bike—it takes ongoing practice and training to retain the skill. Annual trainer recertification ensures that Affiliate Trainers maintain their CLASS™ content knowledge as well as their observation and coding skills.
• How do I find out my trainer certification status?
  Check your trainer certification status by logging in to your account and clicking on “Certification” in the section on Training Resources at the bottom of the page.
• What is the format of the trainer recertification test?
  To recertify, trainers must demonstrate their knowledge by successfully completing the following tasks:

  • Reliably code five videos (80% of all your codes must be within one point of the master code, and within each dimension, at least 2 out of 5 codes must be within one point of the master code).
  • Once trainers have successfully passed the reliability test, they will be granted access to a knowledge test. Passing the knowledge test signifies the ability to help trainees correctly sort behaviors.
  • In the future, we will include a review of trainee pass rates and participant evaluations.
• How do I prepare for the reliability test?
  Maintaining CLASS™ trainer certification requires an ongoing commitment. If you haven’t been using the CLASS™ tool regularly, plan to spend additional time coding practice videos, reading the CLASS™ manual, and familiarizing yourself with the CLASS™ Video Library. As part of the trainer recertification package, you have access to several helpful resources for practice and studying, including a suggested timeline, practice videos, a dimension review, and coding FAQs. Log in to your account and visit the Recertification Test & Prep page to view these resources and additional information and supports.
• How do I prepare for the CLASS™ knowledge test?
  The format of the knowledge test is very similar to that of the Emotional Support and Classroom Organization Domain sorting activities conducted in the CLASS™ Observation Training. To prepare for this test, trainers should carefully review the detailed descriptions in the CLASS™ manual, paying particular attention to the nuances of the tool.
• Is CLASS™ Observer Recertification included in CLASS™ Trainer Recertification?
  Yes. The trainer recertification process includes observer recertification (and the trainer recertification fee covers the fee for observer recertification).
• How long do I have to complete the trainer recertification test once I register?
  You have 6 weeks to take the recertification test from the time you register.
• What are the technical requirements for completing online trainer recertification?
  A high-speed Internet connection and the latest version of the Flash player are required to complete the observation portion of the test. The Trainer knowledge test is delivered online, but there are no special technical requirements for completing the test.
• What happens if I don’t pass the reliability test?
  You will have three opportunities to pass the reliability test. If you are unsuccessful in achieving reliability after all three tests, you may enroll in another CLASS™ Observation Training. At that time, you’ll be able to attempt reliability testing again.
• What happens if I don’t pass the knowledge test?
  If you are unsuccessful in passing the knowledge test you may enroll in another CLASS™ Train-the-Trainer program.
• How long does my trainer recertification last?
  You will be recertified as a trainer for one year from the date you pass the knowledge test. Annual trainer recertification is required to maintain status as a Certified CLASS™ Affiliate Trainer.