Tools for ALL Learners

Overview

In order to increase teacher capacity to integrate assistive technologies into teaching and learning, we must utilize models of professional development that work. Recent research provides information about professional development strategies that are most effective.

As you decide how you will use this resource, consider what is the best and most appropriate approach for your situation.

Selected Reading

Title: Changing Practice Through Effective Professional Development

Citation: McClintock Peck, J. (2005). Changing practice through effective professional development. Northwest Education Magazine, Winter, 32-34.

URL: http://www.nwrel.org/nwedu/11-02/brief/

Use Information: “Permission is granted for teachers to reproduce materials…for staff professional development.”

Key Ideas

• Professional development is most effective when sustained across time.
• Active collaborative learning (mentors, pairs, study circles) and reflective dialogue are important components. Training individuals is less effective.
• Focus on research-based strategies and continuous improvement.
• Professional development should be clearly connected to student learning and should emphasize high expectations for all students.

Extension and Reflection

Although the reading addresses math training specifically, several key ideas are pertinent to professional development, in general. Consider your own recent professional development opportunities. Do any of Julia McClintock Peck’s conclusions match your own experience? Which of her ideas have application in your school and district?

Additional Resources

• ERIC/OSEP Special Project News Brief: Increasing the Accuracy with Which Teachers Implement Research-Based Interventions at http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/eric/osep/newsbriefs/news38.html