An Analysis of Professional Development Programs at High Performing Schools

An Analysis of Professional Development Programs at High Performing Schools

Introduction

Professional development programs are of significant importance in all the fields of professional concerns. However, particularly in the field of education, it is becoming increasingly important for the teachers to develop themselves according to the needs to the technologically advancements in the field of education. This paper will be focusing on some of the aspects of professional development and will also highlight the characteristics of high performing schools.

Discussion

History of Professional Development

Professional development is a dynamic process that spans the entire career of an individual (www.energyzone.net). The overall philosophy of professional development is based on the premise that professional development is a mutual responsibility. It has been initiated in an anticipation that individual will take the lead in the direction he want to take in his career. The opportunities and the elements to help him achieve the goals of his life with respect to personal satisfaction, career advancement and professional development are considered as the professional development programs. The following have been the major approaches throughout the history of professional development.

Approaches to Professional Development

Following are the eight approaches to professional development;

Approaches to Professional Development

Case Study Method

Consultation

Coaching

Communities of Practice

Lesson Study

Mentoring

Reflexive Supervision

Technical Assistance

Case Study Method

The first approach of the professional development is based on the case study method. In this method, case studies are provided to teachers of several different scenarios in which they have to solve the issues while implementing their specific terms according to the requirements. This method is very helpful in developing the analytical skills of an individual (ec.europa.eu). Furthermore, an individual will also get accustomed of reaching solutions in particular situations.

Consultation

A conversation is a directed four-step process that can help people to work together on any issue, major or minor. A facilitator or facilitator directs the conversation and asks a series of questions leading the group in its reactions to spend superficial aspects of a subject to its profound implications.

Coaching

One of the roles of educators is that they are also responsible for training teachers and to help groups of teachers to choose a relevant project and to assist in the implementation process: implementation of curriculum, research management, organization workshops and open new channels of communication between staff members (Teacher Professional Development 2004). For example, through processes such as consensus building, developing a vision and resolution of conflicts, these educators can show teachers and administrators how to develop and hone their collaborative skills.

Communities of Practice

Any changes to the organization or the assignment of roles in a school forces teachers to reconsider the meaning of professional development and those who control it. The decentralized decision-making allows exploiting the talent that lies beneath the school. Strategic planning can empower all members of the school community (administrators, teachers, support staff and supportive parents, commissioners and other stakeholders) (Sutarto 2002). This approach allows everyone to build precisely the future that suits the personal and professional level. The strategic planning process requires, on the other hand, ...