Professional Development - Gilchrist

As I'm reviewing and studying the readings for this module I realize that I am out of touch within the education community.  I am not a practicing teacher and my youngest has been out of school for almost 5 years.  Through these readings I have come to realize that time has changed for professional development for teachers and technology is becoming more and more vital.

I was struck by this quote, " In essence, professional development relies on a two-part transfer of knowledge: It must inculcate in teachers new knowledge and skills such that they change their behavior, and those changes must subsequently result in improved student mastery of subject matter." From the Professional Development article in Education Week.  It appears that there has been some additional accountability placed upon educators.  I realize that the date of this article in 2004 and there have been additional changes in professional development, but I do find the measure of accountability being sought as admirable.

It is throughout this reading, that I realize face to face discussion within the course would be beneficial.  As I look at this article I understand the change in the traditional "teacher inservice days" have evolved.  As a licensed, professional, auctioneer I understand how little value one will find in a day long, generic professional development seminar.  The environment is not conducive to learning of often the lectures and information are watered down and do not provide solid information.    According to this reading, "it [training] needs to take place in a more active and coherent intellectual environment," and I would concur.

As educators, we not only need to provide our students with an active and coherent intellectual environment, but we need to have the same considerations for ourselves.  I am preparing to teaching a weaving class in April, which is geared towards adult learners.  I am teaching a type of weaving that I am comfortable with, but it is not a type of weaving that I do on a regular basis.  My professional development needs, to enhance the learning environment for my students would be to spend quality time with others who share similar knowledge and greater experience.  I always enjoy the opportunity to "talk shop" with other weavers, as we share ideas, experiences, and techniques we create the type of environment that is discussed in this reading.

(2011). Professional development. Education Week, Retrieved from http://www.edweek.org/ew/issues/professional-development/