Providing performance-based feedback to teachers in real-time using Bug-in-Ear technology

ABSTRACT In educational settings across the globe, a growing number of students with disabilities are being educated alongside their typically-developing peers. With that comes a growing need to provide adequate training and follow-up support to classroom teachers. Unfortunately, while educators are expected to implement evidence-based practices (EBPs) in the classroom, teachers commonly attend didactic-based training with little-to-no follow-up support measuring the transfer of knowledge and sustainability of learned teaching practices in the classroom. The research-to-practice gap continues and a growing number of teachers are leaving the field of special education internationally. In this article, we describe instructional coaching used in teacher education and examine different methods of providing performance-based feedback to teachers. There is a specific focus on eCoaching with Bug-in-Ear technology, an unobtrusive technique used to provide teachers with performance-based feedback in real-time while offering repeated implementation opportunities in the classroom. We explain the eCoaching process, required technology, and offer recommendations for practical application of eCoaching procedures.