The Slocumb-Payne Teachers Inventory (SPTI) is a self-report inventory that measures the teaching styles and beliefs of teachers. The SPTI consists of 96 items, each of which is rated on a 4-point Likert scale from 1 (strongly disagree) to 4 (strongly agree).
Step 1: Sum the scores for each subscale.
The SPTI contains 10 subscales, each of which is comprised of 12 items. The subscales are:
- Directiveness: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher uses direct instruction methods, such as lecturing and drills.
- Indirectness: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher uses indirect instruction methods, such as discovery learning and problem-solving.
- Structuredness: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher creates a structured learning environment, such as by establishing clear rules and procedures.
- Unstructuredness: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher creates an unstructured learning environment, such as by allowing students to choose their own learning activities.
- Clarity: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher is clear and organized in their teaching, such as by providing students with clear instructions and expectations.
- Confusion: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher is unclear and disorganized in their teaching, such as by providing students with confusing or conflicting information.
- Warmth: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher is warm and supportive of their students, such as by showing empathy and understanding.
- Coldness: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher is cold and distant from their students, such as by being aloof or dismissive.
- Dominance: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher is dominant and controlling of their classroom, such as by demanding obedience and respect.
- Submission: This subscale measures the extent to which a teacher is submissive and passive in their classroom, such as by allowing students to control the classroom environment.
Step 2: Calculate the mean score for each subscale.
To calculate the mean score for each subscale, divide the total score for the subscale by the number of items in the subscale.
Step 3: Interpret the results.
The mean scores on the SPTI subscales can be used to identify a teacher's teaching style and beliefs. For example, a teacher who scores high on the Directiveness subscale may be more likely to use direct instruction methods, such as lecturing and drills, while a teacher who scores low on the Directiveness subscale may be more likely to use indirect instruction methods, such as discovery learning and problem-solving.
The SPTI can also be used to identify areas where a teacher may need to improve their teaching. For example, a teacher who scores low on the Clarity subscale may need to work on being more clear and organized in their teaching, while a teacher who scores low on the Warmth subscale may need to work on being more warm and supportive of their students.
The SPTI is a valuable tool for teachers who are looking to improve their teaching skills. By understanding their own teaching style and beliefs, teachers can make informed decisions about how to improve their teaching methods and create a more effective learning environment for their students.