Candidate Assessment of Performance
Online Platform User Guide: All Users
Updated April 2017
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906
Phone 781-338-3000 TTY: N.E.T. Relay 800-439-2370 www.doe.mass.edu
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Table of Contents
Overview ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
User Guide A: CAP Manager (CM) ................................................................................................................ 5
Getting Started.......................................................................................................................................... 5
Role of the CM ...................................................................................................................................... 5
CM as a Program Supervisor ................................................................................................................. 6
Registering an Account ......................................................................................................................... 6
Navigating in the System .......................................................................................................................... 7
Viewing Candidate Progress ................................................................................................................. 7
Running a Report .................................................................................................................................. 8
Viewing Candidate Summary Data ....................................................................................................... 8
This summary will appear as below: ..................................................................................................... 9
Uploading Data (non-Platform Users)................................................................................................... 9
Viewing Imported Data (non-Platform Users) ...................................................................................... 9
Trouble-shooting & Feedback ............................................................................................................. 10
User Guide B: Program Supervisor ............................................................................................................. 11
Getting Started........................................................................................................................................ 11
Role of the PS ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Registering an Account ....................................................................................................................... 12
Registering a New Candidate CAP Cycle ............................................................................................. 12
Navigating in the System ........................................................................................................................ 14
Viewing Candidate Progress ............................................................................................................... 15
Editing Teacher Candidate/Cycle Information .................................................................................... 15
Completing the Observation Forms .................................................................................................... 16
Viewing the Candidate’s Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting Form ..................................................... 17
Completing the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan .................................................................. 18
Uploading and Viewing Evidence Files................................................................................................ 19
Completing Formative and Summative Assessments ......................................................................... 20
Registering a Dual Placement/Split-Practicum ................................................................................... 21
Transferring to a New Supervising Practitioner .................................................................................. 23
Ending a Cycle ..................................................................................................................................... 23
Troubleshooting and Feedback........................................................................................................... 23
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User Guide C: Supervising Practitioner ....................................................................................................... 24
Getting Started........................................................................................................................................ 24
Role of the SP ...................................................................................................................................... 24
Registering an Account ....................................................................................................................... 25
Navigating in the System ........................................................................................................................ 25
Viewing Candidate Progress ............................................................................................................... 26
Completing the Observation Forms .................................................................................................... 26
Viewing the Candidate’s Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting Form ..................................................... 28
Completing the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan .................................................................. 29
Uploading and Viewing Evidence Files................................................................................................ 30
Completing Formative and Summative Assessments ......................................................................... 31
Troubleshooting and Feedback........................................................................................................... 32
User Guide D: Teacher Candidate ............................................................................................................... 33
Getting Started........................................................................................................................................ 33
Role of the TC ...................................................................................................................................... 33
Registering an Account ....................................................................................................................... 34
Navigating in the System ........................................................................................................................ 34
Editing Profile Information.................................................................................................................. 35
Viewing Observation Forms ................................................................................................................ 35
Completing the Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting Form ................................................................... 36
Completing the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan .................................................................. 37
Uploading and Viewing Evidence Files................................................................................................ 38
Viewing Formative and Summative Assessments .............................................................................. 38
Completing a Dual Placement/Split-Practicum................................................................................... 39
Troubleshooting and Feedback........................................................................................................... 39
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Overview
This User Guide is designed to support all CAP participants (CAP Manager, Program Supervisor,
Supervising Practitioner, and Teacher Candidate) as they access the Online Platform.
The CAP Online Platform is designed to embed the CAP process and content as outlined in the CAP
Guidelines and Implementation Handbook through a virtual, paperless option for participants to
complete forms and communicate in real time.
The CAP Online Platform was piloted in the spring of 2016 and was fully implemented beginning in
August 2016. All SOs are required to use the CAP Online Platform to report formative and summative
ratings, and are encouraged to use the Online Platform in its entirety for all aspects of a candidate’s CAP
cycle. The options for use are:
1. Full use of the system, with all CAP participants using the system, and/or
2. Reporting formative and summative ratings
SOs may also choose to use a hybrid of both options, with some programs using the Online Platform and
others continuing to use a paper-based system.
This User Guide provides instructions on navigating the CAP Online Platform. For additional guidance on
CAP data collection and submission, please refer to the Quick Reference Guide: CAP Data Collection.
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User Guide A: CAP Manager (CM)
Getting Started
The CAP Online Platform is located at www.desecap.com. The log-in page appears below:
On the bottom of the log-in page there are links to register, re-set your password, or access frequently
asked questions (FAQs).
To begin using the system:
1. Open a compatible1 web browser and log on to desecap.com.
2. All users (including Program Supervisors, Supervising Practitioners, and Teacher Candidates)
must create an account in the Online Platform (see instructions below for Registering an
Account).
3. Once all users are registered in the system, the Program Supervisor registers the candidate CAP
cycle, which will link the triad together and allow you to begin using the system (see instructions
in User Guide B: Program Supervisor).
Role of the CM
Every Sponsoring Organization should appoint one person to be a CAP Manager (CM). The role of a CM
is to coordinate and oversee the CAP Online Platform at an organization level.
The CM is responsible for training, supporting, and trouble-shooting for all users in the system. The CM
has the ability to:
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View the status of registered candidate cycles
View all forms (read only)
View all communication (read only)
Import (if applicable) and/or download CAP data reports
The CAP Online Platform is not compatible with Internet Explorer.
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CM as a Program Supervisor
A CM may also serve as a Program Supervisor, and will therefore need access in the Online Platform for
dual roles. You will use the same email address to register as both the CM and as the Program
Supervisor (see below for instructions on registering each account). After both registrations are active in
the system, you will have a choice during your log-in of which account you would like to access. After
you enter your credentials, the system will provide you with two hyperlinks to choose from, as seen
below.
Once you are logged in, you can toggle between the Program Supervisor and CAP Manager accounts by
clicking on the link at the top, without entering credentials each time.
Refer to User Guide B: Program Supervisor for more information on the roles and capabilities of the
Program Supervisor account in the Online Platform.
Registering an Account
To get started, all users in the system will need to create an account. To register:
1. Click “Register” at the bottom left of the screen
2. Complete the prompts by filling in all fields with your information, as shown below:
3. Click “Submit.” you will then receive an email with a link to verify your registration.
4. Log in with the temporary password, and then create a new password.
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5. Once all users have created their accounts, the Program Supervisor is able to register the
candidate’s CAP cycle in the system (see instructions in User Guide B: Program Supervisor).
Navigating in the System
Once all users have registered accounts and the Program Supervisor has registered each new CAP cycle,
the CAP Manager main screen appears as below:
On the CM main screen, you will be able to:
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View the overall cycle status of all candidates enrolled at your SO,
View the progress of a specific candidate,
Run reports for completed cycles,
Upload formative and summative ratings (for non-platform users), and
View imported ratings (for non-platform users).
Viewing Candidate Progress
The CM’s main screen shows all of the organization’s CAP cycles, sorted by Program Supervisor. CAP
cycles are listed on this page after the Program Supervisor has registered the candidate’s CAP cycle in
the system.
To access a candidate’s CAP cycle information, click on the candidate’s name in the first column. You can
use the User Account Management search bar at the bottom of the page to quickly locate a candidate.
Each candidate’s CAP cycle page appears as shown below:
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On the left side of the screen there is a Communication Window. This is a chat feature for the Program
Supervisor, Supervising Practitioner, and the candidate to send messages in real time. On the top-right is
a “Supervisor-only Communication” feature, which allows the Program Supervisor and the Supervising
Practitioner to speak privately in real time; the candidate does not have access to these messages.
Because the CAP Manager’s permission is read-only, you will be able to view these messages, but will
not be able to use this communication feature to respond.
The right column features a more detailed list of the CAP cycle steps than is displayed on the Main
Screen. Under the heading the “Completed Cycle Steps” is a compiled list of everything that has been
done to this point, while the “Future Cycle Steps” heading lists what still needs to be done in order for
this candidate to complete CAP. You will be able to click on any of the forms for viewing purposes. For
more information on all of these online forms, please refer to the Program Supervisor, Supervising
Practitioner, and Teacher Candidate user guides.
Running a Report
To download a report for completed cycles:
1. Click on the “Reports” button in the top-right corner of the CM main screen.
2. Select the school year from the drop-down menu
3. Click “Download Cycle Report” to export all cycles from your organization into an Excel file.
Any candidates that are still “in cycle” are deemed incomplete. In the report, any ratings that are not
assigned will be given an “i” on the reports. We recommend running reports at the end of the semester
or academic year to ensure that data is complete and accurate.
Viewing Candidate Summary Data
To download a summary report of an individual candidate’s formative and summative ratings, go to
“Other Options in the menu on the candidate’s cycle page and choose “formative/summative
summary.”
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This summary will appear as below:
Uploading Data (non-Platform Users)
For candidates who have completed CAP on paper, ESE still requires that all SOs submit formative and
summative ratings. To import CAP data:
1. Click on the “Reports” button in the top-right corner of the CM main screen.
2. Download the Excel template provided under the heading “Import CAP Cycle Results
Spreadsheet.”
3. Complete ALL FIELDS of the worksheet
4. For ratings, use a lowercase e, p, n, or u (as the example on the template shows).
5. Save as a .CSV file (not an Excel workbook).
6. Choose file and click Import Cycles to upload data into the system.
Refer to the Quick Reference Guide: CAP Data Collection and Submission for more information.
Viewing Imported Data (non-Platform Users)
Once the file is uploaded, you can access imported data on the same Reports page. Under “View
Imported CAP Cycles,” click on a candidate’s name to view their data, and you will be able to view
summary data from the file upload, as shown here:
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Trouble-shooting & Feedback
If you have questions about the CAP Online Platform, please check out the FAQs. If you have a question
that is not on the list, or need assistance with the platform, please reach out to ESE through our email at
[email protected].
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User Guide B: Program Supervisor
Getting Started
The CAP Online Platform is located at www.desecap.com. The log-in page appears below:
On the bottom of the log-in page there are links to register, re-set your password, or access frequently
asked questions (FAQs).
To begin using the system:
1. Open a compatible2 web browser and log on to desecap.com.
2. All users (including Program Supervisors, Supervising Practitioners, and Teacher Candidates)
must create an account in the Online Platform (see instructions below for Registering an
Account).
3. Once all users are registered in the system, the Program Supervisor registers the candidate CAP
cycle, which will link the triad together and allow you to begin using the system (see instructions
below for Registering a New Candidate CAP Cycle).
Role of the PS
The Program Supervisor has primary responsibility for managing CAP cycles in the Online Platform. This
includes:
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Opening and closing CAP cycles
Viewing candidate progress
Communicating with the triad members
Editing candidate and cycle information
Viewing and completing forms
Uploading evidence
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The CAP Online Platform is not compatible with Internet Explorer.
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Registering an Account
All users must create an account in order to begin using the Online Platform. To register a new account:
1. Click “Register” at the bottom left of the screen,
2. Complete the screen prompts by filling in all fields with your information, as shown below:
3. Click “Submit;” you will then receive an email with a link to complete your registration as well as
a temporary password.
4. Check your email to verify your registration.
5. Log in with the temporary password, and then create a new password.
NOTE: A Program Supervisor may also serve as the CAP Manager. In that case, you may add the
second role by registering again using the same email address and selecting the additional role. See
User Guide: CAP Manager for more information.
Registering a New Candidate CAP Cycle
Once all users are registered in the system, the Program Supervisor can register the candidate CAP cycle,
which will link the triad together and allow you to begin using the system.
To register a new candidate cycle:
1. Confirm that the candidate and Supervising Practitioner have each registered in the Online
Platform.
2. Click on the link to “Register a new candidate CAP cycle,” on the main screen.
3. Type in the candidate’s email address and click “check if account exists.”
One of three possible scenarios will occur:
A) If the candidate has already registered, the search will yield his/her name and Sponsoring
Organization, as seen below:
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If the search produces the correct candidate, select Yes and continue to follow the prompts.
B) If the candidate has not yet registered, the system will not recognize the email address, and
will communicate that the teacher candidate must register in order for your CAP cycle
registration to continue.
If the system does not recognize the email address, verify that you have entered the correct
email address and remind the candidate to register and verify their account in the system.
C) If the candidate is registered in the system and already enrolled with another open CAP
cycle, you will receive a message like this.
This is a check against whether you typed in the correct email address, but is possible to use for
split dual practicum. This is the system’s way of checking to make sure that you want to enroll
the candidate in two simultaneous cycles, or if you meant another candidate.
4. After you have entered the candidate’s information, you will be prompted to search for the
Supervising Practitioner by his/her email address:
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If the Supervising Practitioner is located, you will complete the registration and select “Begin
Cycle.” The cycle will then appear on your main screen.
If the Supervising Practitioner is not located because he/she has not registered, you will again
receive a message asking to contact the SP to create an account before proceeding with the CAP
cycle registration.
Navigating in the System
After you log in and register each new CAP cycle, the Program Supervisor main screen appears as below:
On the Program Supervisor main screen, you will be able to:
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View the progress of all of your candidates throughout their cycles,
View the Supervising Practitioner who is assigned to each candidate/cycle, and
Register a new CAP cycle.
Each row in the table is one candidate’s CAP cycle. In the example above, this Program Supervisor has
three candidates. This table provides a snapshot of each candidate’s progress through the components
of CAP.
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Viewing Candidate Progress
To access a candidate’s cycle, click on the candidate’s name in the first column. The candidate’s cycle
page will appear as below:
On the left of the screen, there is a Communication Window. This is a chat feature for the Supervising
Practitioner, the candidate, and you to send messages in real time. When a triad member sends a
message through this window, a notification will appear on the main screen. On the top-right is a
“Supervisor-only Communication” feature, which allows the Program Supervisor and the Supervising
Practitioner to speak privately in real time. The candidate does not have access to these messages.
The right column features a more detailed list of the CAP cycle steps than is displayed on the Main
Screen. Under the heading “Completed Cycle Steps” is a compiled list of everything that has been done
to this point while the “Future Cycle Steps” heading lists what still needs to be completed.
NOTE: If a form appears in Future Cycle Steps that has been completed, revisit the form to ensure
that all required information is entered, the form is saved and the “Complete” box is checked off.
Only when forms are marked “Complete” do they become visible for the candidate. When the form
requires both the SP and PS, both supervisors must mark the form “Complete.”
Editing Teacher Candidate/Cycle Information
A Program Supervisor may edit a candidate’s information, including MEPID, practicum site, assigned SP,
and program, by selecting “Edit Teacher Candidate/Cycle Information” from the right-hand menu of the
candidate’s cycle page.
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Completing the Observation Forms
All observation forms require the same information and evidence as the forms found in Appendix D of
the CAP Guidelines.
The observation form will appear as below:
To complete the observation form:
1. Enter the date, start and end time of the observation, and the group size, as well as a general
statement about the content topic/lesson objective.
2. Enter evidence for each focus element and any additional elements. There are boxes for each
supervisor to separately enter evidence into the form (labeled as “Program Supervisor
Evidence” and “Supervising Practitioner Evidence”). Evidence included is indicative of
performance relative to each element based on the observation. It may include evidence that
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demonstrates one or more of the dimensions (quality, consistency, scope) of an element are
being met or that performance is not yet at the expected threshold.
3. Enter evidence in the “Calibrated Evidence” box. If both supervisors are conducting the
observation, this box should include appropriate evidence collected by and agreed upon by both
supervisors. If only one supervisor is conducting the observation, their evidence should be
entered into this box. Once completed, this calibrated feedback will be automatically available
for reference on the Formative and Summative Assessments.
NOTE: The calibrated evidence boxes are the ONLY evidence boxes that will be visible to
candidates. The form will not be ready to share until all required calibrated evidence boxes
are completed.
4. Complete the reinforcement and refinement feedback at the bottom of the form.
5.
For each required section, there will be a progress indicator to aid the user as he/she completes
the form. When you complete a required section, the progress indicator will change from
incomplete to complete
6. Once you have calibrated your feedback and are ready to share with the candidate, click “Save”
at the bottom of the screen. Scrolling down to the bottom of the screen again, you will see:
7. Click “Complete” as well as “Save Your Work.” If any entry on the form is missing information,
this box will not become available. This will release the document to the candidate.
NOTE: When both the PS and SP are responsible for completing an observation form, both
supervisors must check “Complete” in order for the candidate to view the form.
Viewing the Candidate’s Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting Form
As noted in the CAP Guidelines, the candidate is responsible for completing the self-assessment and
preliminary goal-setting form before the first Three-Way Meeting. Once the candidate has completed
all portions of this form, the Self-Assessment Summary Form becomes viewable to the PS and SP. The
green rectangles on the Self-Assessment indicate the selections that the candidate made for the selfassessment for each of the Six Essential Elements for Quality, Scope, and Consistency.
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These selections are also summarized on the Self-Assessment/Goal-Setting Form (viewable to the PS and
SP after the TC completes the Self-Assessment), as seen here:
The Program Supervisor and/or Supervising Practitioner have the option to share feedback with the
candidate on his/her self-assessment and preliminary goal. If you are satisfied with the candidate’s
work, you will click on “Save Only.” However, if you would like the candidate to make any revisions and
return the document to you, you will click “Return for edits.”
Completing the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan
After you and the Supervising Practitioner approve or return to the candidate the Self-Assessment/GoalSetting form, you will work as a triad to complete the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan form. This
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form is unique, because it is the only form in the system in which all three users share responsibility for
completion.
To complete this form:
1. The Supervising Practitioner will complete the Measure of Student Learning section.
2. The candidate will complete the Professional Practice Goal section (which is automatically
entered from their Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting Form for the opportunity to make any
necessary revisions),
3. The Program Supervisor and the Supervising Practitioner will complete the Implementation
Plan section, as seen here:
For more information on how to complete an implementation plan, refer to the CAP Guidelines.
Once you have your first Three-Way Meeting and finalize the candidate’s goal, select “Yes” and on the
drop-down menu on the candidate’s cycle page main screen and type the date.
Uploading and Viewing Evidence Files
All triad members can upload evidence files into the system. By tagging each piece of evidence to a
particular element or elements, the evidence is automatically populated into the formative and
summative assessment for easy reference.
To upload an evidence file:
1. Click on “Upload Evidence Files” at the bottom of the candidate cycle page. This will take you to
the Document Uploading Page, as seen here:
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2. Choose a file to upload by clicking on “choose file,”
3. Check the box(es) to tag the evidence to an essential element (if applicable),
4. Click “Upload File.”
On this screen, the triad can view all uploaded evidence under “Current Uploaded Documents.” Only the
file owner will have the ability to remove it, in which case the option will appear under “Action.”
Completing Formative and Summative Assessments
The Formative Assessment form appears as below for each of the Six Essential Elements:
The Program Supervisor and Supervising Practitioner complete this form in collaboration. To complete
this form:
1. Use the drop-down menus to select the rating determinations for Quality, Scope, and
Consistency for each element.
2. Indicate whether the candidate has met the readiness thresholds by selecting “Yes” or “No” (see
Quick Reference Guide: CAP Rubric for more information on the readiness thresholds).
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3. Notice that calibrated evidence from each observation pre-populates into the form.
Additionally, links to any evidence that has been uploaded and tagged to an element will also
appear in the form.
4. Provide calibrated feedback to support your ratings.
5. Select “Complete” and “Save Your Work.”
NOTE: Both the PS and SP will need to select “Complete” to share the document with the candidate.
As part of the formative assessment form, you will have the option to add a fifth observation if needed.
You will use the same method for completing the Summative Assessment form. Under each element,
your ratings and feedback from the Formative Assessment will be exported for your reference.
Registering a Dual Placement/Split-Practicum
For candidates that are participating in a practicum where hours are split across placements (e.g., Early
Childhood), Program Supervisors will be able to register the candidate for another cycle by following the
steps outlined above.
At any point during the practicum, when you are ready to create an additional registration for the
candidate’s second placement, select the “Register a new candidate CAP cycle” link on the PS main page
and complete the same search by email address as outlined above.
Through a search by the candidate’s email, the system will note that an open cycle is already in progress.
By clicking “Yes” you will be prompted to enter the new Supervising Practitioner’s name, and complete
the information outlined above to register the new cycle.
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When a candidate has two open cycles, you will see a drop-down menu at the top of their cycle page
that allows you to access each cycle, as shown below:
If a candidate is completing one single CAP cycle between two placements, you can choose to view the
cycles as “merged.” While both cycle pages will still be viewable and accessible in the Online Platform,
when CAP data is generated into a report, the candidate will appear to have one complete cycle rather
than two incomplete cycles.
To merge a cycle:
1. Under “Other Options,” select “Merge This Candidate’s Cycle”
2. Select from which cycle to use the formative and summative assessment.
3. The cycles will appear as “merged” on the main screen, as shown below:
4. On either of the candidate’s cycle pages, you can view the merged data by selecting “View
Merged Cycles” under “Other Options.” The merged view will appear as follows:
Required forms, such as the formative and summative assessment and observations conducted during
either cycle, can be accessed by clicking on the links under each practicum site.
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Transferring to a New Supervising Practitioner
Program Supervisors can use the transfer feature to correct or replace the Supervising Practitioner in
the current CAP cycle. This feature also allows for the CAP cycle to be transferred to another Program
Supervisor, if needed.
To transfer the cycle:
1. Click on the candidate’s name of the cycle that you would like to remove on your Main Screen.
2. On the top-right of the screen, click on “Edit Teacher Candidate/Cycle Info.”
3. Under “Transfer Supervising Practitioner role,” the Program Supervisor will type in the desired
Supervising Practitioner’s email address. This can be a correction to an existing email address,
or a transfer to a new practicum placement Supervising Practitioner.
4. Click “Transfer Supervising Practitioner Role.”
Ending a Cycle
At the conclusion of a CAP cycle or if a candidate exits the program, the Program Supervisor will need to
close the cycle.
To end a CAP cycle:
1. Go to the candidate’s cycle page.
2. Under “Other Options,” select “End Cycle.”
3. Ensure that candidate and cycle information is entered accurately and completely (including
MEPID, program information, and practicum information).
4. Click “Submit Changes.”
5. If any forms are still incomplete, they will appear in a list. Refer back to the candidate’s cycle
page as necessary to ensure that all required forms are completed.
6. Select “Click to End this Cycle.”
7. From the drop-down menu, select the reason for closing the cycle (e.g. CAP was completed, the
candidate exited the program, or the cycle was created in error).
Once the cycle is closed, it will appear at the bottom of your main screen as a “Past CAP Cycle.” You
will have the option to re-open the cycle and continue working. To reopen the cycle, click on the
candidate’s name. Then, at the bottom of the screen, you will choose “Yes” from the drop-down
menu to unlock the cycle:
This will re-open the cycle where you, the Supervising Practitioner, and the teacher candidate left off.
Troubleshooting and Feedback
If you have questions about the CAP Online Platform, please check out the FAQs. If you have a question
that is not on the list, or need assistance with the platform, please reach out to your Sponsoring
Organization’s CAP Manager.
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User Guide C: Supervising Practitioner
Getting Started
The CAP Online Platform can be located at www.desecap.com. The log-in page appears below:
On the bottom of the log-in page there are links to register, re-set your password, or access frequently
asked questions (FAQs).
To begin using the system:
1. Open a compatible3 web browser and log on to desecap.com.
2. All users (including Program Supervisors, Supervising Practitioners, and Teacher Candidates)
must create an account in the Online Platform (see instructions below for Registering an
Account).
3. Once all users are registered in the system, the Program Supervisor registers the candidate CAP
cycle, which will link the triad together and allow you to begin using the system.
Role of the SP
Capabilities of the Supervising Practitioner account in the Online Platform include:
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


Viewing candidate progress
Communicating with the triad
Viewing and completing forms
Uploading evidence
3
The CAP Online Platform is not compatible with Internet Explorer.
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Registering an Account
All users must create an account in order to begin using the Online Platform. To register a new account:
1. Click “Register” at the bottom left of the screen,
2. Complete the screen prompts by filling in all fields with your information, as shown below:
3. Click “Submit;” you will then receive an email with a link to complete your registration as well as
a temporary password.
4. Check your email to verify your registration.
5. Log in with the temporary password, and then create a new password.
6. When you first log in and go to the main screen, you may see a message that you do not have an
open CAP cycle. Once all users have created their accounts, the Program Supervisor is then able
to register each cycle in the system.
Navigating in the System
Once the Program Supervisor registers the CAP cycle in the system, the Supervising Practitioner main
screen appears as below:
On the Supervising Practitioner main screen, you will be able to:
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View the progress of your candidate throughout their CAP cycle,
View the Program Supervisor assigned to the candidate and
Edit your profile information (including your MEPID, license, and account password).
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Viewing Candidate Progress
To access a candidate’s cycle, click on the candidate’s name in the first column. The candidate’s cycle
page will appear as below:
On the left of the screen, there is a Communication Window. This is a chat feature for the Program
Supervisor, the candidate, and you to send messages in real time. When a triad member sends a
message through this window, a notification will appear on the main screen. On the top-right is a
“Supervisor-only Communication” feature, which allows the Program Supervisor and the Supervising
Practitioner to speak privately in real time. The candidate does not have access to these messages.
The right column features a more detailed list of the CAP cycle steps than is displayed on the Main
Screen. Under the heading “Completed Cycle Steps” is a compiled list of everything that has been done
to this point while the “Future Cycle Steps” heading lists what still needs to be completed.
NOTE: If a form appears in Future Cycle Steps that has been completed, revisit the form to ensure
that all required information is entered, the form is saved and the “Complete” box is checked off.
Only when forms are marked “Complete” do they become visible for the candidate. When the form
requires both the SP and PS, both supervisors must mark the form “Complete.”
Completing the Observation Forms
All observation forms require the same information and evidence as the forms found in Appendix D of
the CAP Guidelines.
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The observation form will appear as below:
To complete the observation form:
1. Enter the date, start and end time of the observation, and the group size, as well as a general
statement about the content topic/lesson objective.
2. Enter evidence for each focus element (listed at the top of the screen and bolded throughout
the form) and any additional elements. There are boxes for each supervisor to separately enter
evidence into the form (labeled as “Program Supervisor Evidence” and “Supervising Practitioner
Evidence”). Evidence included is indicative of performance relative to each element based on
the observation. It may include evidence that demonstrates one or more of the dimensions
(quality, consistency, scope) of an element are being met or that performance is not yet at the
expected threshold.
3. Enter evidence in the “Calibrated Evidence” box. If both supervisors are conducting the
observation, this box should include appropriate evidence collected by and agreed upon by both
supervisors. If only one supervisor is conducting the observation, their evidence should be
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entered into this box. Once completed, this calibrated feedback will be automatically available
for reference on the Formative and Summative Assessments.
NOTE: The calibrated evidence boxes are the ONLY evidence boxes that will be visible to
candidates. The form will not be ready to share until all required calibrated evidence boxes
are completed.
4. Complete the reinforcement and refinement feedback at the bottom of the form.
5. Once you have calibrated your feedback and are ready to share with the candidate, click “Save”
at the bottom of the screen. Scrolling down to the bottom of the screen again, you will see:
6. Click “Complete” as well as “Save Your Work.” If any entry on the form is missing information,
this box will not become available. This will release the document to the candidate.
NOTE: When both the PS and SP are responsible for completing an observation form, both
supervisors must check “Complete” in order for the candidate to view the form.
Viewing the Candidate’s Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting Form
As noted in the CAP Guidelines, the candidate is responsible for completing the self-assessment and
preliminary goal-setting form before the first Three-Way Meeting (this form can be accessed in
Appendix B of the CAP Guidelines). Once the candidate has completed all portions of this form, the SelfAssessment Summary Form becomes viewable to the PS and SP. The green rectangles on the SelfAssessment indicate the selections that the candidate made for the self-assessment for each of the Six
Essential Elements for Quality, Scope, and Consistency.
These selections are also summarized on the Self-Assessment/Goal-Setting Form (viewable to the PS and
SP after the TC completes the Self-Assessment), as seen here:
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The Program Supervisor and/or Supervising Practitioner have the option to share feedback with the
candidate on his/her self-assessment and preliminary goal. If you are satisfied with the candidate’s
work, you will click on “Save Only.” However, if you would like the candidate to make any revisions and
return the document to you, you will click “Return for edits.”
Completing the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan
After the Supervising Practitioner and Program Supervisor approve or return to the candidate the SelfAssessment/Goal-Setting form, you will work as a triad to complete the Finalized Goal and
Implementation Plan form. This form is unique, because it is the only form in the system in which all
three users share responsibility for completion.
To complete this form:
1. The Supervising Practitioner will complete the Measure of Student Learning section, as seen
below. For more information on identifying a measure of student learning, refer to the
Guidance: Measuring Student Learning resource in the CAP handbook.
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2. The candidate will complete the Professional Practice Goal section, based on the Self-Assessment
and Goal-Setting Form.
3. The Supervising Practitioner and the Program Supervisor will complete the Implementation Plan
section, as seen here:
4. Once the first Three-Way Meeting occurs and the candidate’s goal is finalized, return to the main
menu on the candidate’s cycle page to document the meeting, as shown below. Select “Yes”
from the drop-down menu and enter the date to indicate that this requirement was met.
Uploading and Viewing Evidence Files
All triad members can upload evidence files into the system. By tagging each piece of evidence to a
particular element or elements, the evidence is automatically populated into the formative and
summative assessment for easy reference.
To upload an evidence file:
1. Click on “Upload Evidence Files” at the bottom of the candidate cycle page. This will take you to
the Document Uploading Page, as seen here:
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2. Choose a file to upload by clicking on “choose file,”
3. Check the box(es) to tag the evidence to an essential element (if applicable),
4. Click “Upload File.”
On this screen, the triad can view all uploaded evidence under “Current Uploaded Documents.” Only the
file owner will have the ability to remove it, in which case the option will appear under “Action.”
Completing Formative and Summative Assessments
The Formative Assessment form appears as below for each of the Six Essential Elements:
The Program Supervisor and Supervising Practitioner complete this form in collaboration. To complete
this form:
1. Use the drop-down menus to select the rating determinations for Quality, Scope, and
Consistency for each element.
2. Indicate whether the candidate has met the readiness thresholds by selecting “Yes” or “No” (see
Quick Reference Guide: CAP Rubric for more information on the readiness thresholds).
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3. Notice that calibrated evidence from each observation pre-populates into the form.
Additionally, links to any evidence that has been uploaded and tagged to an element will also
appear in the form.
4. Provide calibrated feedback to support your ratings.
5. Select “Complete” and “Save Your Work.”
NOTE: Both the PS and SP will need to select “Complete” to share the document with the candidate.
As part of the formative assessment form, you will have the option to add a fifth observation if needed.
You will use the same method for completing the Summative Assessment form. Under each element,
your ratings and feedback from the Formative Assessment will be exported for your reference.
Troubleshooting and Feedback
If you have questions about the CAP Online Platform, please check out the FAQs, which we will update
regularly based on common questions and feedback from users. If you have a question that is not on the
list, or need assistance with the platform, please reach out to your Sponsoring Organization’s CAP
Manager.
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User Guide D: Teacher Candidate
Getting Started
The CAP Online Platform can be located at www.desecap.com,
The log-in page appears below:
On the bottom of the log-in page there are links to register, re-set your password, or access frequently
asked questions (FAQs).
To begin using the system:
1. Open a compatible4 web browser and log on to desecap.com.
2. All users (including Program Supervisors, Supervising Practitioners, and Teacher Candidates)
must create an account in the Online Platform (see instructions below for Registering an
Account).
Once all users are registered in the system, the Program Supervisor registers the candidate CAP cycle,
which will link the triad together and allow you to begin using the system.
Role of the TC
Capabilities of the Teacher Candidate account in the Online Platform include:




Communicating with the triad
Completing the Self-Assessment
Viewing completed Observation Forms and Formative and Summative Assessments
Uploading evidence
4
The CAP Online Platform is not compatible with Internet Explorer.
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Registering an Account
To get started, all users in the system will need to create an account. To register:
1. Click “Register” at the bottom left of the screen.
2. Complete all fields with your information and click “Submit”
3. Check your email for a link to verify your registration. Click the link and log-in with the
temporary password provided in the email.
4. When you first log in and go to the main screen, you may see a message that you do not have an
open CAP cycle. Once all users have created their accounts, the Program Supervisor is then able
to register each cycle in the system.
5. When you log in for the first time after the PS has registered your cycle, you will be prompted to
complete your program and practicum information. Enter all fields and select “Submit Cycle
Info” to begin accessing the system.
Navigating in the System
Your main cycle page appears as below:
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On the left of the screen, there is a Communication Window. This is a chat feature for the Program
Supervisor, Supervising Practitioner, and you to send messages in real time.
The right column lists all of the CAP cycle steps and forms. The steps that are not yet completed are
listed under “Future Cycle Steps.” The steps that have been completed will be listed under “Completed
Cycle Steps.” Each of these forms is a link that can be viewed once completed.
Editing Profile Information
You can edit profile information (including home address, MEPID, program and practicum information)
by selecting “Edit Profile” from the top menu of the main screen.
Viewing Observation Forms
All observation forms require the same information and evidence as the forms found in Appendix D of
the CAP Guidelines.
Once shared by the Program Supervisor and/or Supervising Practitioner, observation forms will appear
as below:
The top of the form identifies the focus elements for the observation. The Program Supervisor and/or
Supervising Practitioner will share evidence for those focus elements as well as any additional elements.
They will also share feedback on areas for reinforcement and refinement.
NOTE: This form will only become viewable to you once the PS and/or SP have completed and saved
it. Once they do so, it will move from “Future Cycle Steps” to “Completed Cycle Steps” and be
accessible for viewing.
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Completing the Self-Assessment and Goal-Setting Form
Before the first three-way meeting, you will be responsible for completing the self-assessment and
preliminary goal-setting form. For each of the Six Essential Elements, you will select ratings for yourself
for Quality, Scope, and Consistency and complete a series of reflective questions. See the CAP
Guidelines and the Quick Reference Guide: CAP Rubric for more information.
To complete the Self-Assessment Rubric:
1. Select a rating of your performance for Quality, Scope, and Consistency for each element,
2. Click “Save Changes” at the bottom of the screen to continue to the next element, and
3. Continue to complete ratings for all Six Essential Elements. You can monitor your progress
using the navigation bar on the left. Once you complete an element, a green check mark will
show in the “Status” column.
4. Select “Finalize Rubric” at the bottom of the left navigation bar (under the list of elements),
which will appear once all Six Essential Elements ratings are completed.
Once you complete the Self-Assessment Rubric, you will move on to the Self-Assessment Form.
To complete the self-assessment form:
1. Choose “Complete Self-Assessment Form” from the right column on your main screen. Your
rubric selections will have been automatically extracted and inputted into the table at the top of
the page for your reference, as seen here:
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2. Complete the rest of the form, responding to each prompt and creating a preliminary
professional practice SMART goal.
3. Once you have completed all portions of the form and are ready to share this document, click
“Complete” at the bottom of the screen as well as “Save Your Work.” NOTE: all entries must be
completed in order for the “Complete” box to appear.
4. Your Program Supervisor and Program Supervisor will then have the opportunity to review this
document and accept it, or return it to you with feedback to continue working. If the document
is returned to you, you will see “Complete Self-Assessment Form” once again under “Future
Cycle Steps.” Once you are finished applying any edits, you will need to once again click
“Complete” at the bottom of the screen as well as “Save Your Work.”
Completing the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan
After the Program Supervisor and the Supervising Practitioner approve the Self-Assessment and GoalSetting Form, you will work as a triad to complete the Finalized Goal and Implementation Plan form.
This form is unique, because it is the only form in the system in which all three users share responsibility
for completion.
To complete this form:
1. The Supervising Practitioner will complete the Measure of Student Learning section.
2. The Program Supervisor and the Supervising Practitioner will complete the Implementation Plan
section.
3. The Teacher Candidate will complete the Professional Practice Goal section, based on the SelfAssessment and Goal-Setting Form, as seen here:
The preliminary goal that you drafted during your Self-Assessment will be automatically entered into
this box. You will have the opportunity to revise this goal based on any input provided by your Program
Supervisor and Supervising Practitioner.
Once you have your first Three-Way Meeting and finalize your goal, select “Yes” and on the drop-down
menu and type the date to indicate that this requirement was met.
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Uploading and Viewing Evidence Files
All triad members can upload evidence files into the system. By tagging each piece of evidence to a
particular element or elements, the evidence is automatically populated into the formative and
summative assessment for easy reference.
To upload an evidence file:
1. Click on “Upload Evidence Files” at the bottom of the candidate cycle page. This will take you to
the Document Uploading Page, as seen here:
2. Choose a file to upload by clicking on “choose file,”
3. Check the box(es) to tag the evidence to an essential element (if applicable),
4. Click “Upload File.”
On this screen, the triad can view all uploaded evidence under “Current Uploaded Documents.” Only the
file owner will have the ability to remove it, in which case the option will appear under “Action.”
Viewing Formative and Summative Assessments
For the Formative and Summative Assessments, your Program Supervisor and Supervising Practitioner
will determine ratings of Quality, Scope, and Consistency for each of the Six Essential Elements based on
the your performance thus far, and supply evidence for each rating. See the CAP Guidelines and Quick
Reference Guide: CAP Rubric for more information.
Once ratings has been determined and calibrated, the assessments will be shared with you, as seen
here:
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NOTE: You will not be able to view Formative and Summative Assessments until the Supervising
Practitioner and Program Supervisor have completed and calibrated their feedback, and have released
the form to be shared with you.
Completing a Dual Placement/Split-Practicum
For candidates that are participating in a practicum where hours may be split across placements (e.g.,
Early Childhood), Program Supervisors will register you for another cycle. You can access both cycle
pages by using the drop-down menu at the top of your screen, as shown below:
Troubleshooting and Feedback
If you have questions about the CAP Online Platform, please check the FAQs. If you have a question that
is not on the list, or need assistance with the platform, please reach out to your Sponsoring
Organization’s CAP Manager.
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