Guest author Patricia Brown, Technology Integration Coach at Old Bonhomme Elementary School in Saint Louis, MO: In a one-size fits all professional development approach, many teachers get overlooked and fall through the cracks resulting in poor implementation in the classroom. Meeting this challenge is a huge task. The key to successful PD is creating professional learning experiences that support teachers to make learning faster, long-lasting and transferable. Changing the way we view professional development as a whole can certainly create impactful learning experiences for teachers, which has a domino effect in the classroom. Instead of ”professional development,” teachers need authentic, personalized “professional learning opportunities” that improve workflow and foster creativity. They should allow for teachers to make connections with content, and most importantly each other. Teachers need the same level of engagement as students, and they are more engaged when they participate in professional learning opportunities that give them ownership, and a personalized experience. Teachers need choice just like our students, and experiences that enhance and develop the 4C’s: critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration. Setting learning goals that are individualized for teachers is ideal because it puts them in charge of their professional development. Teachers can choose how they they want to meet their goal, wether it be by attending a conference, workshop, online tutorial, or face to face. Teachers set goals, and can create PLC’s with others with similar or the same goals. What works for you?
