Assessing the Impact of Teacher Learning

Abstract

This chapter provides a framework for understanding how professional learning can improve classroom practices, how to measure changes in teacher practice, and how to promote teacher engagement to improve classroom practices. Sustained, effective professional learning can increase effective instructional practices within the classroom setting; however, many skills and resources are necessary for implementing and sustaining long-term solutions. Time is perhaps the most valuable, and limited, resource available to teachers, coaches, and administrators. Diverting time and effort toward professional learning requires educators to reprioritize their resources. Affecting change at the individual and group levels entails understanding and utilizing models of professional learning for teacher growth shown to be effective. Enhancing instructional strategies known to improve student learning is an important component of effective professional learning. The primary goal of most teacher-focused professional learning is to impact a specific aspect of teacher behavior or instructional practice anticipated to bolster student outcomes.