PD Thoughts for the Day

In a recent article off Education Week (February 11, 2009), an article cited some interesting facts concerning effective staff development. This list included the following items:

• Programs of 30-100 hours of time over six months to a year-positively influenced student achievement, while those with fewer than 14 hours had little effect
  
• Sustained curriculum that is connected to teachers’ classroom practice, focuses on specific content, aligns with school improvement goals and fosters collaboration among staff.
  
• Lesson Study-observing another teacher’s lessons and then analyzing it for strengths and weaknesses.
  
• Lesson Plans should be developed collaboratively.
  
• Observe teachers’ lessons, provide feedback and model instructional practices.
  

Keeping these thoughts in mind, we can see the importance of the Professional Learning Community organization that many of our schools are using. In addition, we see the importance of moving way from the "one and done" type of workshops to development that is sustained over a longer period of time. Lastly, this also suggest the importance of coaching in our schools. Keep these thoughts in mind as you plan your next professional development activities.