MO EDU-SAIL Learning Packages Direct Instruction | Page 77
Professional Development to Practice
Practice Profile
Implementation with fidelity requires clearly described implementation criteria. The Practice Profile framework has recently
been developed by the National Implementation Research Network (NIRN) as a way of outlining implementation criteria using a
rubric structure with clearly defined practice-level characteristics (NIRN, 2011). According to NIRN, the Practice Profile emerged
from the conceptualization of the change process outline in the work of Hall and Hord’s (2006) Innovation Configuration Mapping
(NIRN, 2011).
The Practice Profile template includes four pieces and is anchored by the essential functions. First, as a header is the foundation
of implementation that philosophically grounds implementation. Then moving from left to right across the template are the
essential functions of the practice, implementation performance levels, and lastly, evidence which provides data or
documentation for determining implementation levels.
How to Use the Practice Profile
The essential functions align with the teaching/ learning objectives for each learning package. For each teaching/learning
objective are levels of implementation. For some essential functions, proficient and exemplary implementation criteria are the
same and in others, criteria differ. Close to proficient levels of implementation suggest the skill or practice is emerging and
coaching is recommended for moving toward more proficient implementation. When implementation is reported at the
unacceptable variation level, follow-up professional development in addition to coaching is recommended. The professional
development provider should walk through the practice profile with the educator-learners, referring to the data and artifacts
listed as suggested evidence. It is an important tool for self-monitoring their own implementation because it serves as a reminder
as to the implementation criteria and is also aligned with the fidelity checklists.
Missouri Collaborative Work Practice Profile
Foundations present in the implementation of each essential component: Commitment to the success of all students and to improving the quality of
instruction.
Direct Instruction
Essential Function
Exemplary Proficiency
Ideal Implementation
Close to Proficient
Proficient
(Skill is emerging, but not yet to
ideal proficiency. Coaching is
recommended.)
Far from Proficient (Followup professional development
and coaching is critical.)