Teacher Perceptions on the Evaluation of Professional Performance in Mexico

Abstract

In Mexico, the need to improve educational quality persists, which includes evaluating teacher effectiveness. However, evaluating professional performance is a complex task. Research on the subject agrees that the application of comprehensive models, based on standards and multiple indicators, is required. This article qualitatively analyzes the perceptions and experiences of a group of elementary school teachers in the public system —from eight States of the Mexican Republic— about the process of professional evaluation they were part of, in the framework of the Educational Reform implemented during the six-year term 2012-2018. The participants indicated that they were in favor of the evaluation, they considered that it serves to know their positive aspects and areas of opportunity, and that they require constant training and updating processes to help them in their work. They also identified difficulties in the implementation of the evaluation process: aspects from other contexts were not adapted to the particularities of Mexico; the evaluation was based on threats, which demotivated teachers; and uncertainty and miscommunication was a big issue.