Why We Film Classrooms
Classroom video is at the heart of Teachstone’s work. We certify observers by asking them to reliably code video segments. Our courses and trainings use authentic classroom moments to model exemplary CLASS® practices and support teacher professional development. We are constantly adding new resources, so we have a consistent need to collect new classroom footage.
Learn more in our FAQs below.
Where does Teachstone get their classroom footage?
From all over the United States and from other countries. Teachstone is committed to filming in diverse settings so that our content feels relatable to all.
Is your filming staged?
No. We encourage teachers and students to go about their normal day. We try to stay out of the way and minimize any disruptions to capture the most authentic footage possible.
Do the teachers receive incentives for being filmed?
We offer an honorarium in the form of gift cards to teachers that are filmed and the administrator(s) that help us coordinate the filming. We can also give temporary access to the footage for use for internal Professional Development.
Do all of the teachers in my school have to participate?
No, we film only the teachers that would like to participate.
How long does filming last?
Typically, we like to film one entire school day in each classroom, but we do have the videographer take breaks during times that cannot be coded, such as nap time.
What is the filming process like?
The process starts with a phone conversation where we learn about you and your school and answer your questions about filming. Next, we find out if other teachers at your school are interested in participating and obtain permission from your administration. Protecting the identities of the children and teachers we film is very important to us. As a result, we require that teachers and parents of students being filmed sign consent forms prior to filming. Once all consent forms have been signed, we will schedule a time to visit your school that is convenient for you.
When it’s time to film, our videographer travels to your school. The videographer typically spends one day in each participating classroom. On the day of filming, teachers should follow their typical routine and adhere to planned activities. We want to capture an authentic day in the life of each classroom we visit so the videos we create will feel relatable.
Will users who see my footage know who I am or who the children are?
No. During the filming, we do our best to exclude full names and identifying details of all teachers and students being recorded. If a full name or the school name is said or seen, we bleep or blur it during our editing process to protect the identities of those shown.
How can I participate?
Fill out this form and we will reach out to you!
Are there any specific types of classroom footage that you’re in need of right now?
Yes! We are in need of Spanish Infant, Toddler and Pre-K classroom footage. We also need English Infant and Toddler classroom footage, Family Child Care, and footage with Children with Disabilities.