Professional Development: Perception among School Librarians

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe roles of school librarians as well as the needs of library users have been changing. To keep up with the changes, school librarians have been required to engage in professional development which enables them to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for the effective provision of services and programs to their clients. School districts formulate policies that provide guidelines on the professional development requirements and activities for school librarians but there have been concerns on the effectiveness and approach of professional development as outlined in the policies. Using Ball's policy cycle theoretical framework, the study analyzed professional development policies within schools and interviewed school librarians to understand their perception of professional development. Findings from the study will enable librarians and administrators within the school and districts to understand the current state of professional development and may also suggest effective and innovative strategies in professional development for school librarians.