Teacher Professional Development and Improved Student Achievement

Posted by on October 13, 2006

[posted from Public Education Network newsblast]

LINK BETWEEN HIGH-QUALITY TEACHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & IMPROVED STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AFFIRMED

A new study from Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL) has found that professional development for teachers can have a positive impact on student achievement if it: (1) is sustained over time; (2) focuses on specific content areas or instructional strategies; (3) supports the collective learning of most, if not all, teachers in a school; (4) aligns with school and teacher goals; and (5) provides opportunities for teachers to practice and apply new knowledge. McREL researchers also found, however, that in general, teacher professional development does not reflect these characteristics. As a result, it has had mixed results in improving student achievement. McREL recommends that those responsible for planning professional development ensure that teacher training focuses on particular areas of teacher and student needs. In addition, schools and districts should carefully scrutinize professional development programs to ensure that they are based on rigorous research and employ effective strategies for improving teacher and student performance.

http://www.mcrel.org/topics/productDetail.asp?topicsID=10&productID=234