This report describes a framework used to organize available empirical information on one form of performance-based management, a performance-based accountability system (PBAS), which identifies individuals or organizations that must change their behavior to improve an activity1s performance, an incentive structure to motivate those changes, and measures tailored to inform the incentive structure.

Performance-based accountability systems (PBASs) link incentives to measured performance to improve services to the public. Research suggests that PBASs influence provider behaviors, but little is known about PBAS effectiveness at achieving performance goals. This study examines nine PBASs that are drawn from five sectors: child care, education, health care, public health emergency preparedness, and transportation.

Performance-based accountability systems (PBASs) link incentives to measured performance to improve services to the public. Research suggests that PBASs influence provider behaviors, but little is known about PBAS effectiveness at achieving performance goals. This study examines nine PBASs that are drawn from five sectors: child care, education, health care, public health emergency preparedness, and transportation.

The authors analyze the systems of three districts and two states that have begun or are planning to incorporate measures of student performance into teacher evaluations. They examine how the systems are addressing assessment quality, evaluating teachers in nontested subjects and grades, and assigning teachers responsibility for particular students. The authors also discuss measurement challenges for policymakers to consider.

In our increasingly technological society, improving students' performance in mathematics and science has become a critical challenge. During the 1990s, the National Science Foundation funded a series of Systemic Initiatives designed to change the way these subjects are being taught in schools throughout the country. These initiatives sought to align all aspects of the educational system in support of ambitious curriculum and performance standards, with particular emphasis on teacher training and professional development to promote effective changes in instructional practice.