Precision Teaching (PT) is a systematic and data-driven approach to teaching that emphasizes frequent measurement of student performance, usually in terms of fluency (speed and accuracyAccuracy refers to how closely the observed value (what is m...), and making data-based decisions to guide instruction. The goal of Precision Teaching is to help learners achieve fluency in skills by measuring how quickly and accurately they can perform a behaviorBehavior refers to any activity or action that living organ..., then using this information to adjust teaching strategies for optimal learning. PT often uses Standard Celeration Charts to track progress.
Key Components:
- Fluency: Emphasizes achieving both accuracy and speed in a skill.
- Daily Data Collection: Behavior is measured frequently, often daily, to monitor progress.
- Standard Celeration Chart: A tool used to plot and analyze the learner’s performance over time, helping to visualize growth and make instructional decisions.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Instruction is modified based on the learner’s data to improve performance or fluency.
Example:
A student is learning math facts (e.g., multiplication tables). Using Precision Teaching, the teacher measures how many correct answers the student can give in one minute (timed fluency drills). Data is collected daily and plotted on a Standard Celeration Chart. If the student’s fluency is not improving, the teacher adjusts the instruction method to target the skill more effectively, such as breaking the task down into smaller steps or providing more practice opportunities.