Mentoring Teachers: There's an App for That!

Abstract

Faithful implementation of the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics requires states, districts, and teachers to not only design instruction that meets the new content standards, but also pay close attention to the eight Standards for Mathematical Practice that are interwoven within these Standards. The Ohio Resident Educator Program partners beginning teachers with experienced mentors, each of whom might be struggling to conceptualize how the practice standards "look" during instruction. We examine a technological application (app) that mentor teachers can use to collaborate with their resident educators. Common Core Look-fors can be used by mentor teachers to collect data on how their mentee provides students with opportunities to engage in the mathematical practices. In addition, the app promotes collaboration by providing a means for mentors and their mentees to articulate their strategies for increasing student engagement in practices.