What characteristics make the Networks distinct from other types of professional development for educational leaders?
Becky: So often professional development is focused on isolated strategies or discrete components of leadership – for example, how to adhere to requirements for special education funding or how to put in place a new textbook series. Leaders need ideas and strategies that develop their ability to impact the quality of teaching at their sites. They also need colleagues to provide a sounding board and opportunities to apply new concepts in their own context, so that great ideas don’t just stay at the conceptual level. Our Networks make these connections between research, proven practice, and practical application. Belinda: I agree. Often times professional development is a one-shot deal. It’s focused on one specific content area and more input-oriented. Our Networks are an iterative, ongoing system for developing the capacity of our leaders. I don’t think there’s that notion that the person in front of the room is the one who holds all the knowledge and is going to impart that knowledge.
Related Questions
- What types of professional development can assist veteran teachers to develop and demonstrate subject-matter competence?
- How can the ACMCU Educational Outreach Program meet my school or institution’s professional development goals?
- What types of projects are suitable for Professional Development Tutorials?
