https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd Workplaces, especially schools, are fond of boasting about professional development programs and resources. But what exactly is professional development, and how can an employee make the most of PD offerings? en-us 2016-11-28 22:27:34 UTC 2023-01-25 22:45:19 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/icons/Manbag.png coffeecourse https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140368398 Professional development is basically teacher education.

It can encompass a wide variety of formal programs, informal workshops, online courses, conferences, and presentations that teachers can choose to attend or may be required to attend in accordance with district requirements or state law. 

The Glossary of Education Reform provides a detailed definition of PD and some examples. It also explains why it can be confusing to understand.]]> 2016-11-29 00:02:54 UTC https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140368398 coffeecourse https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140369402 Professional development can take a number of forms. Some examples include:

In-classroom learning. This can include a graduate degree program, a certificate program, or even auditing a single class at the local university or community college.
Online learning. Many universities offer rigorous online programs that are equal to taking a degree program in-person, but on your own schedule. Online learning can also be offered via pre-recorded videos or slideshows, or as an interactive MOOC (Massive Open Online format) . Sites like Udacity offer a dizzying array of online courses, open to anyone for a low cost. 
Conferences Teachers can attend conferences that offer presentations and sessions on topics relevant to their teaching work, from technology to diversity.
Research or Reading - Some districts may have a list of recommended reading materials for teachers looking to update their knowledge of strategies, curricula, or methodologies in teaching. 
Discussion Groups - Teachers may want to gather with other members of their school or community to discuss ways to improve their teaching. This is a common use case for Padlet - PD discussion boards, like the PD parking lot below.
Mentorship - More experienced professionals will take a newer teacher under their wing, offering advice, comfort, and a model of what to do.

Did we leave something out? Let us know how YOU do professional development in the comments below. ]]> 2016-11-29 00:15:53 UTC https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140369402 coffeecourse https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140678217 Professional Development programs offer tons of resources for teachers, whether it's new skills, new teaching materials, or renewed confidence in their expertise. When districts or states make PD necessary, teachers have to make time for it, and even though everyone's  busy and budgets are tight, schools have to incorporate it as part of yearly programming. 

One understated pro of PD is that teachers  get a chance to talk to other teachers. This communication is vital: from building a network of supportive individuals, to swapping tips, to opening up minds and worldviews, the connections made engender personal growth.]]> 2016-11-29 22:04:59 UTC https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140678217 coffeecourse https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140682654 The real value of PD is hard to quantify. When school districts regulate Professional Development, the district leaders get to decide what can be counted as PD and what does not qualify. However, sometimes the best teacher learning comes from enriching experiencing outside of commonly accepted forms of development, such as by traveling to a new city, visiting a museum, or even meeting someone at a dinner party.]]> 2016-11-29 22:31:52 UTC https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140682654 coffeecourse https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140685271 2016-11-29 22:55:53 UTC https://padlet.com/coffeecourse/pd/wish/140685271