Framework Guide
Danielson Framework Software
Charlotte Danielson's Framework for Teaching is the most widely adopted teacher evaluation framework in the United States. Here is how to implement it with software in 2026 — and what to look for in any tool that claims to support it.
The four domains
Any tool supporting the Danielson Framework should structure observations around the four domains. EduEval implements the framework natively:
- Domain 1: Planning and Preparation. Captured pre-observation through artifacts (lesson plans, unit plans) or at the start of an observation cycle.
- Domain 2: The Classroom Environment. Captured live during the walkthrough — culture, routines, behavior management, physical space.
- Domain 3: Instruction. The heart of the observation — questioning, engagement, assessment for learning, responsiveness.
- Domain 4: Professional Responsibilities. Captured outside the classroom — reflection, communication with families, professional learning, contribution.
All 22 components, by domain
Danielson-aligned feedback should reference the specific component observed, not just the domain. Here is the full component reference:
Domain 1: Planning and Preparation
- 1a Knowledge of Content and Pedagogy
- 1b Knowledge of Students
- 1c Setting Instructional Outcomes
- 1d Knowledge of Resources
- 1e Designing Coherent Instruction
- 1f Designing Student Assessments
Domain 2: The Classroom Environment
- 2a Respect and Rapport
- 2b Culture for Learning
- 2c Managing Classroom Procedures
- 2d Managing Student Behavior
- 2e Organizing Physical Space
Domain 3: Instruction
- 3a Communicating with Students
- 3b Questioning and Discussion Techniques
- 3c Engaging Students in Learning
- 3d Using Assessment in Instruction
- 3e Demonstrating Flexibility and Responsiveness
Domain 4: Professional Responsibilities
- 4a Reflecting on Teaching
- 4b Maintaining Accurate Records
- 4c Communicating with Families
- 4d Participating in a Professional Community
- 4e Growing and Developing Professionally
- 4f Showing Professionalism
What to look for in Danielson software
1. Component-level evidence linking
Generic narrative feedback is not Danielson-aligned. The tool should let you tag observed behaviors to specific components (e.g., 3b: Questioning and Discussion Techniques) and produce feedback at that grain.
2. Performance-level descriptors
Danielson uses four levels — Unsatisfactory, Basic, Proficient, Distinguished. The tool should let you score at the component level and use the descriptors as the basis for narrative drafting.
3. District adaptation
Most districts customize the standard framework. The tool should let you edit the local version without losing the underlying structure.
4. AI that respects the framework
AI drafting is the 2026 unlock — but only if the AI knows what Danielson is. Test on a real observation: does the draft cite component-level evidence, or does it summarize in generic management language?
FAQ
Is the Danielson Framework pre-loaded in EduEval?
Yes. EduEval ships with the Danielson Framework for Teaching pre-loaded as a selectable rubric, including all four domains (Planning and Preparation, The Classroom Environment, Instruction, Professional Responsibilities) and their components.
Can I customize the Danielson rubric for my district?
Yes. Many districts adapt Danielson with their own performance descriptors or local language. EduEval lets you start from the standard framework and edit indicators, descriptors, or scoring levels to match your district's adopted version.
Does the AI know how to write Danielson-aligned feedback?
Yes. EduEval's AI is tuned to produce evidence-based, behavior-specific feedback aligned to Danielson's component-level indicators. You provide the observation notes; the AI maps them to the right components and drafts a narrative.
What if our district uses a hybrid framework?
EduEval supports any rubric structure with domains, indicators, and performance levels. If your district uses a hybrid of Danielson and another framework, upload the local version and EduEval will align feedback to it.
How many components does the Danielson Framework have?
22 components across the 4 domains — for example Domain 1 has 6 components (1a–1f), Domain 2 has 5 (2a–2e), Domain 3 has 5 (3a–3e), and Domain 4 has 6 (4a–4f). EduEval structures evidence and feedback at this component level, not just the domain level.
Who created the Danielson Framework?
Charlotte Danielson first published the Framework for Teaching in 1996 through the Danielson Group. It has since become the most widely adopted teacher evaluation framework in U.S. public schools.
Try Danielson with EduEval, free.
Five observations a month on the free tier. Select Danielson as your rubric, capture your notes, and see the AI draft component-level feedback.