The Praxis are a set of validated assessments intended to provide accurate information by state education agencies towards making licensing decisions for new teachers. Around 80% of all states rely on the Praxis. Some colleges and universities use this test to qualify individuals into their teacher education program and license them as registered educators of the state.
Three categories: These categories correspond with three milestones in a teachers development.
- Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessment- Taken early in college career; Measures reading, writing & math skills. Test available through paper-based or computer based.
-Praxis II: Subject Assessment- Measures knowledge of subjects candidates are going to teach- specific pedagogical skills & knowledge. Principles of Learning & Teaching are included in this group.
- Praxis III: Classroom Performance Assessment- Measures beginning skills of new teachers in the classroom. Used for teacher licensing decisions by state or local agencies. Their are 19 assessments in four domains which embrace the teaching & learning experience- Planning to teach, classroom environment, instruction & professional responsibilities as a teacher. They are accessed by direct observation of classroom practice; review of documentation prepared by the teacher, and semi-structured interviews. It provides insight into pedagogical areas which benefit teachers with additional development to succeed.