How does HighScope evaluate programs?
A proven model can only benefit children if it is implemented with high levels of fidelity. To guarantee that programs claiming to do HighScope are indeed using our educational approach, we accredit programs and certify teachers and trainers with the second edition of the Preschool Program Quality Assessment (PQA). Trained evaluators observe in the classroom and interview program staff to record objective notes and complete ratings on 72 items in seven areas: learning environment, daily routine, adult-child interaction, curriculum planning and assessment, parent involvement and family services, staff qualifications and staff development, and program management. The PQA is also an excellent tool for staff development, because detailed examples of “ideal” implementation are built into the scoring system. Like the COR, the PQA is also used in state and national evaluation projects to assess the impact of training and examine the relationship between program quality and children’s developm
