Study: little difference in terms of quality between traditionally and alternatively certified teachers

Historically, state governments have sought to improve the quality of the teacher workforce by requiring certification. Teachers are among the most licensed public personnel employees in the United States. Traditionally, an education degree with student teaching experience and passage of licensure exams were necessary for licensure. In the 1980s, alternative paths to certification developed.

This study evaluated the impact of licensure screens and licensure routes on student achievement. An analysis of Arkansas data suggests that there is little difference in terms of quality between traditionally and alternatively certified teachers. However, licensure exams do have some predictive power.