Practice-Based Evidence: A Model for Helping Educators Make Evidence-Based Decisions

Within their teacher preparation courses and field experiences, preservice teachers are introduced to numerous instructional practices, not all of which are considered research-based. For this reason, instruction in how to evaluate the effectiveness of one’s practices is essential, but it is often a lacking component of initial certification programs. In this article, a flexible, problem-solving model for collecting and reflecting on practice-based evidence (PBE) is described. The model, utilized in a graduate program in Special Education, was designed to assist teacher candidates in evaluating the effectiveness of the practices they implement to optimize students’ learning outcomes. Implications for practice in the K-12 environment are also provided.