professional learning
In order to best address the complex needs of adult learners, it is important for those engaged in designing professional learning to know their audience and plan for their success in implementing the learning for maximized student outcomes. The template below is designed to aid in planning effective and dynamic professional learning taking into account the work of Elena Aguilar, the Learning Forward Foundation, and Eric Westendorf.
- As noted in The Art of Coaching, “research studies indicate that effective coaching structures promote a collaborative culture where school staffs feel ownership and responsibility for leading improvement efforts in teaching and learning” (Aguilar, 2013). Strong professional learning builds capacity and begins with intentionality in the design process.
- The Standards for Professional Learning provided a ready format for ensuring that the learning is effective not only for teachers, but more-so for students. As stated by the Learning Forward Foundation, “the standards make explicit that the purpose of professional learning is for educators to develop the knowledge, skills, practices, and dispositions they need to help students perform at higher levels” (Learning Forward, 2014).
- Eric Westendorf’s column in Edtech Digest addresses key components of effective professional development. He outlines the 3P’s: product, process, and people. The combination of bringing people together in collaboration to create a product through a well thought out process holds the promise of success (Westendorf, 2014).
Standards for professional learning |
The Standards for Professional Learning outline a series of standards which aim to provide professional development that "lead to effective teaching practices, supportive leadership, and improved student results" (Learning Forward 2014). The standards envision ongoing learning for educators and are rooted in the belief that improved student outcomes derive from improved learning opportunities for teachers. The standards focus on learning communities, leadership, resources, data, learning designs, implementation, and outcomes.
The video below provides an overview of the standards and more in-depth information can be found at: Learning Forward - Professional Learning Standards |
professional learning template |
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