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Observational tools
What were the most commonly used tools to observe program quality?
In 2021, 43 QIS used an observational tool. Of those, 35 (81%) used more than one tool. The Environment Rating Scales (ERS) were the most commonly used observational tools. About two-thirds of QIS use the ERS for some purpose, whether it be for the rating itself or for quality improvement (70%). The Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) was the second most commonly used tool. Nearly half (49%) of states use the CLASS tool. Nineteen percent of QIS used self-developed or home-grown tools, and 16% used another tool not listed.