What Is Fidelity
Fidelity means implementing interventions as intended by developers. This includes: correct dosage (frequency and duration), proper procedures, using required materials, and following the prescribed sequence.
Why Fidelity Matters
- • Without fidelity, you don't know if lack of progress is due to ineffective intervention or poor implementation
- • Research evidence is based on proper implementation
- • Modifications may undermine effectiveness
Intervention Planning
Plan, track, and measure the effectiveness of student interventions across all tiers.
Monitoring Fidelity
Observation
Direct observation of intervention delivery using fidelity checklists aligned to program requirements.
Self-Report
Interventionists report on their own implementation—less reliable but more feasible for ongoing monitoring.
Permanent Products
Review logs, student work, and other artifacts that indicate implementation.
Supporting Fidelity
- • Initial training on intervention procedures
- • Ongoing coaching and feedback
- • Clear materials and protocols
- • Protected time for intervention delivery
See AcumenEd in Action
Request a personalized demo and see how AcumenEd can transform your school's data.
Key Takeaways
- Fidelity means implementing interventions as designed—dosage, procedures, materials, sequence.
- Monitor through observation, self-report, and permanent products.
- Support fidelity with training, coaching, materials, and protected time.
Marcus Johnson
Director of Data Science
Data scientist specializing in educational analytics with expertise in growth modeling and predictive analytics for student outcomes.
