Hands-on practice: A multi-study validation of a self-assessment tool for teacher competences

Self-reflection on educational skills is crucial for student teachers’ professional development. This research series validated the Teacher Training Competence (TeTraCom+) self-assessment tool, based on established teacher competence standards (e.g., Baumert & Kunter, 2011; KMK, 2022). Across three studies (total N = 1042), we explored whether student teachers can recognize and assess various teaching competences. An initial exploratory factor analysis (n = 508) revealed four competence factors, which were replicated and expanded to include three digital competence factors in a second study (n = 302). A third study (n = 232) used confirmatory factor analysis to confirm the seven-factor structure: educational competence, research skills, self-regulation, communication, general digital competence, learning and teaching-related digital competence, and precautions regarding digital technology. TeTraCom+ thus offers a reliable, evidence-based tool for systematic self-reflection, supporting targeted professional growth in teacher education and providing a valuable resource for educators.