Teachers' communication apprehension (CA) and the relationship of observational evaluation scores

Teacher evaluations in Florida are linked with the teacher's pay, advancement, and job security. While being observed for evaluative purposes, teachers may experience communication apprehension (CA), potentially lowering their evaluation scores. In the current quantitative study, 128 participants were sampled to determine whether the level of a teacher's communication apprehension is related to the evaluative rating score of Florida teachers using the situational communication apprehension measure (SCAM) and teachers' self-reporting latest informal evaluation ratings. No correlation was found between negative anxiety and evaluative scores; however, a weak, but significant correlation was shown between the positive items on the SCAM and evaluative scores. Data were collected on the number of years teaching and self-reported anxiety levels; however, no correlation was found. A correlation existed between years of teaching and the negative items on the SCAM. The longer the teaching experience, the more anxiety was reported. No correlation existed between years of teaching and evaluation scores. Therefore, it cannot be stated that with more experience, the higher the evaluative ratings. The study showed that approximately 70% of teachers surveyed admitted to having some communication apprehension during evaluative observations. Further research concerning teacher communication apprehension is needed for teachers to recognize and manage their anxiety while being observed for evaluative purposes.