Professional Development Initiatives Research Articles

Shifting from distributive to recognitional social justice for rural educators through professional development

ABSTRACT Progress towards equitable schooling and educational outcomes in Australia has been notoriously slow, with countless reports highlighting stark inequities between rural areas and urban centres. Most reforms have been grounded in distributive notions of social justice – addressing funding, staffing, and resourcing – but fail to address other domains of injustice manifest in the positioning of the rural as Other, as deficit or in need of saving. To counter this trend, this paper examines how one teacher professional development (PD) initiative, Quality Teaching Rounds (QTR) Digital, built a “politics of recognition” for rural educators, analysed through two school-based case studies situated in diverse geographical regions of NSW, Australia: a remote central school and a small regional primary school. Drawing on interview data collected from rural educators and principals, we show how QTR Digital not only overcame the documented difficulties of accessing high-quality PD in rural Australia but also fostered a positive sense of group difference and respect for teaching and learning in these contexts. We argue that if we are to enact such significant change for rural educators, reforms that both challenge the normative ideals of city life and redefine a positive image of rural schools and communities are urgently needed.

The Effect of Service Training on English Teachers’ Beliefs and Attitudes

In-service training (IST), deemed vital for faculty growth, primarily aims to aid instructors in enhancing their teaching skills, with the expectation that their participation will subsequently enhance classroom performance, resulting in improved educational outcomes for students. This study investigates the impact of service training on the beliefs and attitudes of English teachers. To achieve this objective, semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom to explore the instructors’ perspectives regarding the perceived service training and its effects on the teaching and learning process. The study delves into the experiences and perceptions of the instructors regarding the service training they received. Through in-depth interviews, participants shared insights into the effects of such training on their instructional methodologies, classroom practices, and overall professional development. Additionally, their perspectives on the perceived benefits, challenges, and effectiveness of the service training were examined. The findings shed light on the multifaceted impact of service training on English teachers, offering valuable insights into its influence on the teaching and learning process. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics between professional development initiatives and educators’ beliefs and attitudes, providing implications for the design and implementation of future training programs aimed at enhancing EFL instruction. Findings emphasize the importance of aligning IST with teachers’ needs and fostering participatory involvement in its design.

Deep learning in teacher professional development using Goethean phenomenology: a self-study

ABSTRACT While teacher professional development (PD) has the potential to improve pedagogy and student learning, multiple factors contribute to its effectiveness. Research has identified supports and barriers which can influence the success or failure of PD initiatives at each stage of the process. Despite progress, many PD programmes are ineffective and do not always result in meaningful and enduring changes. In the trajectory from PD planning to implementation, the relationship between content presented and content accepted by teachers is critical. Yet there is a gap in the literature in terms of what teachers report actually happens around their PD learning. Studies focus largely on intended PD and less on teacher perceptions of PD experiences. This self-study explored the potential of using Goethean phenomenology as a novel approach for understanding and capturing the teacher/researcher’s perceptions of their own learning. The study focussed on a series of PD sessions in drama education using the author’s personal experiences as data. Findings highlight key supports and barriers to teacher learning of PD material. Goethe’s method is shown to be a useful model for teacher reflective practice, an effective framework for deep learning, and a powerful tool for elucidating teachers’ lived experiences of their PD learning.

Professional Development Effective From a Teacher Performance Perspective (Study of Literature in Various Countries)

The purpose of this research is to examine and explain the description related to professional development in teacher performance. The study adopts a literature review approach and utilizes data collection methods in the form of journals and scientific articles that encompass the concept of teacher professional development. The analysis used in this research involves reviewing the latest research findings and sequentially filtering relevant research materials. The study reveals that teacher professional development programs implemented in various countries have been proven effective in enhancing the quality of teacher performance. These findings emphasize the importance of continuous professional growth and indicate that these programs play a role in shaping and refining educators' competencies. By engaging in targeted professional development initiatives, teachers can acquire new knowledge, pedagogical techniques, and innovative strategies, enabling them to deliver more effective instruction and promote optimal student learning outcomes. The research also recognizes the significance of sharing experiences and insights among educators, fostering a supportive professional community. An important contribution of this research lies in the identification and provision of a reference program that can serve as a valuable resource for educators and facilitate the advancement of the teaching profession. In conclusion, this literature study provides valuable insights into professional development programs aimed at improving teacher performance. Through the examination and analysis of various literature sources, it has been demonstrated that these programs effectively contribute to enhancing the quality of teachers.

Impact of Human Resource Management on The Implementation of Physical Education Program in Selected Universities in Guizhou Province: Basis for Inputs to Policy Reformulation

This study investigated the impact of human resource management (HRM) strategies on the implementation of Physical Education Programs (PEPs) in selected universities within Guizhou Province, China. Employing a descriptive-correlational research design, data were gathered through self-made questionnaires assessing the implementation of HRM practices and PEPs. The study involved 310 physical education teachers from Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou University, and Guizhou Normal University. Findings revealed moderate to high levels of HRM implementation across various aspects, with room for improvement in employee satisfaction and compensation. Similarly, PEP implementation demonstrated moderate levels across key areas, suggesting opportunities for enhancement. Significant correlations were observed between certain HRM practices, such as performance evaluation, and aspects of PEP implementation, notably curriculum integration. However, other HRM factors showed less substantial impacts on PEP implementation. Based on these findings, recommendations were proposed to optimize HRM practices and improve PEP effectiveness. These included tailored professional development initiatives, revised performance evaluation practices, prioritization of employee satisfaction, enhancement of compensation and benefits, promotion of academic freedom, adoption of a holistic HRM approach, facilitation of collaborative partnerships, and establishment of a culture of continuous improvement and evaluation.

How teachers make talk rules relevant as collective scaffolds in the context of digital technology – support for and from microblogging

ABSTRACT Collaboratively established talk rules, combined with teacher scaffolding, can help students talk together in ways that support learning. Most classrooms today utilise digital technology, and talk rules have proven beneficial for learning in this context. However, research on the strategies teachers use to make talk rules relevant in activities that include digital technology is rare. The authors analyse teachers’ strategies in 57 lessons, part of a teacher professional development initiative featuring explicit focus on talk rules and teachers’ use of the microblogging tool Talkwall. Their results contribute to understanding (1) how teachers can use digital technology to make talk rules relevant in activities and (2) how digital technology, when used with a dialogic approach, can promote student talk for learning. Lastly, they consider next steps in creating productive resources for teacher professional development focused on digital technology.

Initial Development and Validation of a Questionnaire for Students’ Artificial Intelligence Knowledge in Education

This research investigates students' knowledge in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education through the administration of a formulated questionnaire. Drawing upon insights from thematic analysis of qualitative responses and computation of Cronbach's alpha coefficients, the study aims to produce a tool to assess tertiary level students' understanding regarding AI integration in academic settings. Results reveal varying degrees of awareness, knowledge, and confidence among students, highlighting thematic areas such as perceived benefits, ethical considerations, and disciplinary perspectives. While the questionnaire demonstrates validity, reliability, and scalability as a measurement tool, limitations including response bias and generalizability are acknowledged. Implications for educational practice and research are discussed, emphasizing the utility of the questionnaire in informing curriculum development, professional development initiatives, policy decisions, and future research directions. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into students' perspectives on AI in education, offering a foundation for enhancing AI literacy, fostering ethical awareness, and shaping the future of AI integration in educational settings.

TEACHERS’ CLASSROOM MENTORSHIP PROFICIENCY AND ENGAGEMENT-CENTERED PEDAGOGY AS PREDICTORS OF COGNITIVE SATISFACTION OF STUDENTS

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of teachers classroom mentorship proficiency and engagement-centered pedagogy on the cognitive satisfaction of students. In this study, the researcher selected the 220 Grade 7 students in Cluster 14 public secondary schools in Davao City as the respondents of the study. Stratified random sampling technique was utilized in the selection of the respondents. Non-experimental quantitative research design using descriptive-correlational method was employed. The data collected were subjected on the following statistical tools: Mean, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and Regression Analysis. Descriptive analysis showed that teachers classroom mentorship proficiency, engagement-centered pedagogy, and cognitive satisfaction of students were described as moderately extensive. Further, correlation analysis demonstrated that teachers classroom mentorship proficiency and engagement-centered pedagogy were significantly correlated with the cognitive satisfaction of students in Cluster 14 public secondary schools in Davao City. Evidently, Regression Analysis proved that when teachers classroom mentorship proficiency and engagement-centered pedagogy are considered as predictors of cognitive satisfaction of students in Cluster 14 public secondary schools in Davao City, the model is significant. It is recommended that the Department of Education (DepEd) should encourage the integration of mentorship training programs into teacher professional development initiatives to enhance mentorship proficiency. KEYWORDS: Educational management, teachers’ classroom mentorship proficiency, engagement-centered pedagogy, cognitive satisfaction of students

The integration of lecturer collaboration within higher education institutions’ quality culture framework

PurposeThere is a lack of clarity about how lecturer collaboration in light of learning and (professional) development fits within the framework of a quality culture in higher education institutions (HEIs). More specifically, it is unclear how collaboration is present or stimulated in the organisational context, triggering working mechanisms leading to quality-related outcomes. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to relate HEIs' quality culture to lecturer collaboration.Design/methodology/approachThis exploratory study relates institutions’ quality culture to lecturer collaboration via semi-structured interviews and document analysis at the institutional level in four Flemish HEIs.FindingsThe results demonstrate collaboration as a working mechanism driven by the institutional strategy. In this way, lecturers’ professional development (PD) is stimulated. The results also indicate that collaboration is present within lecturers’ PD: working together during or sharing experiences after PD initiatives is considered useful for quality teaching and learning.Originality/valueFollowing the growing attention in research and practice to lecturer collaboration, this study incorporates lecturer collaboration in the framework of quality culture within HEIs.

Child participation in South African primary schools: How useful is the Lundy model?

Background: The concept of ‘learner voice’ has received global attention in recent years, frequently credited to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). The UNCRC recognises that children have (1) the right to express a view and (2) the right to have the view given due weight. However, in many countries, including South Africa, despite legislation that recognises child rights, there is a relative absence of learner voice and participation in school-level decision-making.Setting: The setting of this continuing professional development (CPD) initiative is GADRA Education, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), in Makhanda Eastern Cape.Method: A consultative participation approach was adopted with Grades 2–4 learners, under the auspices of GADRA Education. Eight child participation consultations were held, followed by a further eight feedback sessions 5 months later. All were audio-recorded.Results: The results of the CPD initiative suggest that the model provides a useful framework for increasing child participation in primary schools. However, further deliberation is necessary ‘with’ learners around choices related to space, audience, and the alternative ‘hat’ of the facilitating teacher.Conclusion: Building on our learning, we aim to develop these ideas further through a more sustained research project, involving not only consultative participation but also collaborative participation and child-led participation.Contribution: Insight into the extent to which the Lundy model of child participation (Lundy 2007) can be used as a framework to guide researchers and practitioners in assisting primary school learners to develop their voice and exert influence in matters concerning them.

Integrating Open Knowledge and Administrative Management in the Digital Transformation Model of Education Institutions: An Effective Approach

This paper explores the integration of Open Knowledge and Administrative Management into the Digital Transformation Model within educational institutions, focusing on the National Academy of Education Management and three secondary schools in Hanoi. Through a comprehensive methodology involving data collection, analysis, and system development, the study examines the effectiveness of this integrated approach in enhancing educational outcomes. The findings reveal significant improvements in knowledge dissemination, resource allocation, and administrative efficiency following the implementation of the integrated model. By harnessing open knowledge resources and streamlining administrative processes, educational institutions have been able to optimize teaching and learning practices, facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, and promote innovation in education. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of ongoing research, evaluation, and professional development initiatives to sustain the momentum of this integrated approach. By investing in capacity building, promoting collaboration, and embracing emerging technologies, educational institutions can adapt to the evolving needs of learners and prepare them for success in the digital age. Overall, the integration of Open Knowledge and Administrative Management represents a promising pathway towards educational excellence and equity. Through collective efforts and a commitment to continuous improvement, educational stakeholders can drive meaningful change and empower learners to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

LIVED EXPERIENCES OF RECEIVING TEACHERS IN HANDLING BEHAVIORAL ISSUES OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

This qualitative phenomenological study provides a comprehensive exploration of the challenges, strategies; coping mechanisms, and insights experienced by receiving teachers in addressing behavioral issues among students with special needs in inclusive education settings. Through in-depth focus group discussions with five receiving teachers from Island Garden City of Samal, Davao Del Norte, the study exposes the real struggle and complexities of managing diverse behavioral concerns. The thematic analysis uncovers the intricate web of both academic obstacles and behavioral manifestations, prompting the development and implementation of tailored strategies, including individualized behavior plans and collaborative problem-solving approaches. Moreover, the study highlights the vital role of coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from colleagues and prioritizing self-care practices amidst the demanding educational landscape. The insights gleaned from teachers lived experiences underscore the transformative potential of empathy, adaptability, and inclusive teaching methodologies. Ultimately, the research advocates for targeted professional development initiatives and collaborative support networks to empower receiving teachers to effectively navigate the unique challenges presented by students with special needs, especially students with behavioral issues. By promoting inclusive and supportive learning environments, this study contributes significantly to the enhancement of special education practices and resources. KEYWORDS: Special Education, Behavioral Issues, Receiving teachers, research, teaching, Inclusive Education, and special education practices.

Facilitating inclusive education: Assessing faculty awareness and attitudes towards students with special educational needs at Qatar university

IntroductionAn increasing number of students with special educational needs (SEN) are attending higher education institutions. Faculty members are key players in the implementation of inclusive policies, the success of which depends on their attitudes and awareness to help students with SEN. PurposeThe aim of this study was to assess faculty attitudes toward SEN students and awareness of the support provided by the university for SEN students. MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study of Qatar University (QU) faculty conducted via an online survey. Demographic data such as gender, years of experience, and academic discipline were collected and associated with previous exposure to SEN students and survey responses using SPSS. ResultsThree hundred and thirty-one QU faculty responded out of 1107 registered faculty in 2022, a 30 % response rate. About a third of respondents did not know about available support services for SEN students, and only half of those with awareness of the services attended. After controlling for sociodemographic variables, previous contact with SEN students had a significant effect on attitudes, such that faculty with no previous contact with SEN students (M = 1.47, SD = 0.62) had higher positive attitudes towards SEN students relative to faculty with previous contact with SEN students (M = 1.31, SD = 0.47). However, faculty with contact with SEN students were more likely to report awareness of the availability of workshops and were more likely to be aware of assistive technology compared to being unsure, while those with no previous contact with SEN students were more uncertain about the availability of workshops and assistive technology. ConclusionThe findings suggest a need for targeted interventions to improve faculty awareness of support services and attitudes towards students with SEN in higher education, highlighting the importance of professional development and training initiatives to promote inclusivity in the classroom. Faculty members need to be aware of existing support services for SEN students.

IMPACT OF CLASSROOM OBSERVATION TOOL AND RESULTS-BASED PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM ON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER PERFORMANCE

This literature review explores the implications of utilizing the Classroom Observation Tool (COT) and Results-Based Performance Management System (RPMS) on teaching performance among educators in public elementary schools. The COT serves as a structured instrument for assessing classroom activities, while the RPMS provides a framework for evaluating teacher performance based on professional standards. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing research and policy documents, this review examines the impact of these systems on teaching effectiveness and student outcomes. Research indicates that the systematic use of the COT allows educators to identify areas of strength and growth in their teaching practice, leading to targeted professional development interventions. Additionally, the integration of the RPMS ensures alignment between teacher assessments and professional standards, promoting accountability and continuous improvement in teaching practice. Studies have shown that educators who participate in regular classroom observations and performance evaluations experience enhanced job satisfaction and morale, leading to greater retention and commitment to their profession. Moreover, the implementation of these systems has been associated with improvements in student learning outcomes, as teachers are better equipped to meet the diverse needs of their students. However, challenges such as resource constraints and resistance to change may hinder the effective implementation of these systems. Moving forward, further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of the COT and RPMS on teaching performance and student achievement. Overall, this literature review highlights the importance of incorporating systematic observation and performance evaluation mechanisms into teacher professional development initiatives to promote continuous improvement in teaching practice and enhance student learning outcomes in public elementary schools.

Enhancing Teacher Professional Development: Strategies, Challenges, and Impacts on Instructional Practice and Student Learning Outcomes: A Review of Research Literature

Abstract: Teacher professional development (PD) is widely acknowledged as a critical component in enhancing educational outcomes and improving student achievement. This study provides a comprehensive review of the importance of teacher professional development, focusing on its impact on teacher effectiveness, instructional quality, and student learning outcomes. Drawing on a synthesis of empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and best practices, this paper highlights the multifaceted benefits of continuous teacher PD, examines key factors influencing its effectiveness, and identifies promising approaches for supporting teachers' ongoing growth and development. The findings underscore the significance of investing in high-quality PD initiatives to cultivate a skilled and motivated teaching workforce capable of meeting the diverse needs of 21st-century learners.

Navigating the Digital Shift: Unveiling the TPACK Landscape among EFL Educators in Indonesia

Background: Enhancing English language learning activities can be achieved by integrating Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK). However, not all EFL teachers, particularly those participating in Indonesia's Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG), effectively harness TPACK to optimize their teaching methods. This study aims to explore TPACK proficiency among EFL teachers, emphasizing the disparities influenced by gender and school status, to guide targeted professional development strategies. Methodology: This study, conducted in 2023, was carried out by English Language Education study program lecturers who teach in the PPG. It employed a mixed-method study to investigate TPACK mastery among 285 EFL teachers. A comprehensive research questionnaire was developed and administered to assess TPACK proficiency, focusing on gender and school status as potential differentiators. Findings:The study delves into integrating TPACK dimensions in EFL teaching, revealing gender-neutral proficiency levels but significant disparities based on school status. While male and female teachers exhibited similar TPACK mastery, state school teachers demonstrated higher proficiency, indicating the influence of school context. Tailored professional development initiatives are crucial to address these disparities and foster effective technology integration in ELT, necessitating collaborative efforts among stakeholders to overcome challenges and promote innovative pedagogical practices conducive to modern learning environments. Conclusion:This study illuminates EFL teachers' TPACK mastery and obstacles and prospects. While ICT integration is difficult, the TPACK framework offers potential ways to create engaging learning environments. Successful implementation requires overcoming instructional challenges and maintaining stakeholder support. To maximize teaching and learning, educators must adapt their methods to technology. Originality: The study fills a knowledge gap by examining EFL teachers' TPACK proficiency, providing insights into gender and school status differences, and insights on challenges and opportunities. Given the prevalent use of technology in education, it is imperative to assess TPACK among professionally employed EFL teachers

How do micro-placements in industry within an initial teachers’ training programme contribute towards bridging the gap between education and employment?

ABSTRACT The complex interplay between labour market needs and education poses significant challenges to the teaching profession, frequently criticised for its perceived inadequacy in addressing contemporary work – life dynamics and professional practices. In response to these challenges, the ‘Micro-Placements’ initiative was introduced in an initial teacher training programme in Malta, aimed at providing student teachers with practical exposure to different industries. This study reports on an evaluation conducted within a higher education institution, utilising a responsive approach alongside the RUFDATA evaluation framework to observe the value-added of having micro-placements in a programme that enables students to become teachers. Through qualitative analysis, this study underscores the value of micro-placements in enriching pedagogical practices by enabling teachers to integrate diverse workplace experiences, thereby fostering the development of skills essential for active citizenship among students. The findings advocate for the integration of micro-placements into initial teacher training programmes and for their incorporation into continuous professional development initiatives for educators.

Centering community and collaboration in a multi-year literacy professional development initiative between a university and school district

PurposeThis paper shares findings from a multi-year literacy professional development partnership between a school district and university (2014–2019). We share this case of a Literacy Cohort initiative as an example of cross-institutional professional development situated within several of NAPDS’ nine essentials, including professional learning and leading, boundary-spanning roles and reflection and innovation (NAPDS, 2021).Design/methodology/approachWe asked, “In what ways did the Cohort initiative create conditions for community and collaboration in the service of meaningful literacy reforms?” Drawing on social design methodology (Gutiérrez & Vossoughi, 2010), we sought to generate and examine the educational change associated with this multi-year initiative. Our data set included programmatic data, interviews (N = 30) and artifacts of literacy teaching, learning and leading.FindingsOur findings reflect the emphasis areas that are important to educators in the partnership: diversity by design, building relationships through collaboration and rooting literacy reforms in teacher leadership. Our discussion explores threads of reciprocity, simultaneous renewal and boundary-spanning leadership and their role in sustaining partnerships over time.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to our understanding of building and sustaining a cohort model of multi-year professional development through the voices, perspectives and experiences of teachers, faculty and district administrators.

Applying an Academic Literacies Lens to the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL): A Scoping Review

Scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL) is central to improving teaching, enhancing students’ learning experiences and ensuring practice is evidence-based. This study explores the insights gained by applying an academic literacies lens to the results of professional development initiatives (programmes, schemes, etc.,) designed to enhance features of faculty colleagues’ SoTL skills. A scoping review was conducted on Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice (JUTLP) papers published from 2004-2023. Developing teaching practice is a central theme of JUTLP and the papers published across this timeframe provide a rich source from which to explore initial insights as a first step to potentially deeper explorations. The review identified four themes emerging from the qualitative data captured across the review sample: meaning-making together; journey of becoming; flattening of power; and context-specific identities. The analysis points to reasons why collaborative meaning-making opportunities are so valued within professional development initiatives. The academic literacies lens highlights issues of discourse, power, epistemology and identity, and consequently illuminates these collaborative moments as spaces that provide a knowledge and identity-based anchor for colleagues. This lens also stresses the destabilising and emotive nature of ‘becoming’ a pedagogic scholar. Implications of the findings are considered from an academic development perspective. Discussion centres particularly on how academic developers may work to support rather than jeopardise colleagues’ future SoTL trajectories.

Speaking of Organic Chemistry: A Faculty Metaphor Analysis in Organic Chemistry Education

Organic Chemistry is frequently considered to be a difficult subject. Understanding the factors that contribute to this phenomenon can inform the chemistry education community of what can be done to improve organic chemistry education. This work is part of a larger study focused on student and faculty perceptions of organic chemistry at a large public university in the southeastern United States. Specifically, this paper contains an analysis of metaphors from interviews with faculty members who teach organic chemistry. Over the course of the interviews, the faculty members compared experiences in organic chemistry to learning a new language, practicing an instrument, and organizing clothes. The analysis of these metaphors was based on the Improved Metaphor Analysis (IMA) framework. The connections made by these metaphors gives greater insight into the perspectives of the organic chemistry faculty members as well as possible faculty action research interventions in organic chemistry education. We propose that metaphor analysis can be a powerful and innovative tool to guide professional development and action research initiatives.