Integration of the Common Core state standards into CTE: challenges and strategies of career and technical teachers

Abstract

In recent years, conversations about the importance of education standards in [US] school systems have intensified. Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are being implemented across most of the country. The standards require a major shift in instruction and the needed supports really are not there. This study investigated the common barriers, challenges, practical strategies, and supporting examples of what teachers were doing to integrate the CCSS into career and technical education curricula. A survey research design investigated 44 career and technical teachers' experiences with the CCSS. Findings for this study raise further questions with regard to understanding and implementation of the CCSS into the K-12 curriculum. These are, (a) what kind of formative assessment practices can help teachers align and measure their implementation of the CCSS into their teaching? and (b) how does the implementation of the CCSS into the curriculum increase student achievement?