What is ISD (Instructional System Design)

This chapter discusses the conceptualization and development of a methodological tool for conducting classroom research and teacher evaluations with application to the analysis of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) classroom data. The development process involved the creation of a structured video observation system (called the Synchronized Video Observation System, SIVOS) built on top of a database application. The concept applies the integration of an on-screen video frame containing classroom-teaching episodes alongside a structured teaching evaluation rubric. The conceptualization and development of such an application leverages rapid application development techniques. The application is of significance because it allows for the fine-grained and iterative analysis of classroom teaching episodes. It leverages the storing, searching, and retrieval capacity of a database application to code video segments with a structured observation tool. The tool offers an opportunity to enhance the fairness, accuracy, and transparency of teacher evaluations. The approach values low-inference, low-learning curve design. It allows for data to be quickly and easily analyzed. With such tools, teachers, researchers, and administrators have the ability to examine teaching behaviors for continuous improvement.