Teacher Professional Development Research Articles

Teacher preparedness and professional development needs for successful technology integration in teacher education

Teacher preparedness and professional development needs for successful technology integration in teacher education

ENHANCING TEACHER PRACTICES IN ASSESSING FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD): AN EMPIRICAL PERSPECTIVE

Youth students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are at higher risk of functional skills deficiency, which presents a barrier to the acquisition of academic skills. This study examines teachers’ practices in determining the functional performance of students with ASD in stage-based education pathways in Kenya. A quantitative research design was employed, involving 47 teachers and 76 students with ASD from various primary schools. Data were collected using a self-administered rating scale for teachers and a modified version of the Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales for students. Descriptive and sequential regression analyses were conducted to evaluate teacher practices and their impact on students’ functional skills. Findings show that the identification and use of instructional resources were the most frequently performed practices among teachers, while the assessment of functional skills was the least. The study found significant correlations between teacher practices and students’ functional skill acquisition, particularly communication skills. However, the relationships among teacher practices were generally weak, indicating a lack of integration in their approaches. The study concludes that a comprehensive approach, incorporating multiple assessment practices, is essential for improving student outcomes. Recommendations include targeted professional development for teachers, standardized assessment practices, and increased collaboration with parents to support functional skill development in students with ASD. These findings underscore the need for enhanced training and resource access to optimize educational outcomes within the Competency-Based Curriculum framework.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0717/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Mapping the relationship and influence of school internal factors with an eye towards students' science academic outcomes

The present research sought to explore the relationship between school internal factors and their influence on students' academic outcomes in science subjects at the secondary school level in Punjab, Pakistan. A quantitative survey method was employed, utilizing a self-administered questionnaire to collect data on school internal factors, including laboratories, curriculum, and teacher quality, and students' science academic outcomes. The study sampled 210 secondary schools across Punjab, encompassing 630 science teachers specializing in biology, physics, and chemistry. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested. The constructs' underlying structure was examined through both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, using the PLS-PM Path Modeling approach to support these analyses. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) revealed that the measurement model demonstrated internal consistency. The path analysis results indicated that laboratories, curriculum, and teacher quality significantly and positively influence students' academic outcome in science subjects. The study concludes that enhancing the resourcefulness of science educators is crucial, particularly through the provision of support materials for science teaching and learning. This support enables students to engage in experimental learning, develop critical thinking skills, and explore innovative approaches to problem-solving. Furthermore, the findings emphasize the importance of regularly reviewing and updating the secondary school curriculum to ensure its quality. The recruitment of certified teachers with advanced degrees in relevant fields and the provision of ongoing professional development for educators are also recommended to improve academic outcomes in science.

Junior High School Written Work Fluent and Accurate

The present study determined the written language performance of junior high school students at Bulan National High School S. Y.2023 - 2024. The study utilized a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods to assess the students' written language proficiency. Quantitative data were collected using rubrics to evaluate fluency and accuracy, while qualitative data were obtained through content analysis of the students' essays. The findings revealed that the students' performance in terms of fluency and accuracy varied, with areas of improvement identified in both aspects. Difficulties encountered by the participants included challenges in maintaining coherence and organization in their writing, as well as issues related to spelling accuracy and punctuation and capitalization usage. Based on the findings, an action plan titled "Enhancing Written Language Skills Program" was proposed to address these challenges and improve the students' writing abilities. The study's conclusions indicated that while the average performance level of the junior high school students in terms of fluency and accuracy met the set standards, there were variations in individual performance levels. The participants faced difficulties in fluency and accuracy, including challenges related to content fluency, organization of ideas, spelling accuracy, and proper punctuation and capitalization usage. To address these challenges, the study recommended differentiated instruction, explicit instruction on effective writing components, targeted practice activities, self - editing and revision strategies, a comprehensive curriculum integrating explicit instruction and authentic writing tasks, professional development for teachers, formative assessments for progress monitoring, fostering a supportive writing environment, and utilizing technology resources. In addition to the recommendations from the study, further research was recommended to investigate the effectiveness of different instructional strategies in improving students' writing skills. This research could compare explicit instruction with other approaches, such as inquiry - based learning or project - based learning, to determine their impact on fluency, coherence, accuracy, and organization. Conducting such research would provide valuable insights and evidence - based recommendations for educators to enhance their instructional practices and support students' development in writing with fluency and accuracy.

Developing and implementing an Einsteinian science curriculum from years 3–10: B. Teacher upskilling: response to training and teacher’s classroom experience

Abstract Recent years have seen a growing interest in modernizing school science curricula to reflect the discoveries in physics since 1900, especially with the recent broad recognition of the importance of quantum physics in the modern world. Much effort has been expended in the development of appropriate teaching instruments for teaching Einsteinian physics in schools, but less effort on the crucial topic of teacher professional development. Successful curriculum innovation requires teacher professional development. This paper reports an analysis of teacher professional development for practising primary and secondary teachers who were upskilled as part of a process for implementing an 8-year Einsteinian curriculum across 38 primary and secondary schools in Australia. Most participants had little prior knowledge of Einsteinian physics. Using self-assessment through questionnaires and interviews, combined with classroom validation, we show that three different professional development programs led to high levels of content knowledge and confidence to teach Einsteinian physics in classes from Year 3 to Year 10. The analysis presented supports our conclusion that it is feasible to upskill teachers from diverse backgrounds in Einsteinian physics and break the cycle that has inhibited the modernisation of school curricula.

“Why is the bear sad?”: preparing preservice educators to support children’s inferencing during storybook reading

ABSTRACT The study investigated the effects of an instructional unit for preservice educators aimed at developing their knowledge about children’s inferencing skills and strategies to support these skills during storybook reading. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group that received instruction on supporting inferencing (n = 13) or a comparison group (n = 12) that received instruction on print referencing, another means of supporting emergent literacy. For both groups, instruction involved a videorecorded presentation; independent reading, observation, and reflection; and discussion and practice of the targeted strategies with peers in a virtual environment. Participants’ knowledge about emergent literacy and inferencing was evaluated via a questionnaire and a role-play. While both groups increased their knowledge about emergent literacy from pretest to posttest, only the experimental group improved significantly on knowledge about inferencing and asked a greater number and proportion of inferential questions during the role-play, as well as more diverse questions. The implications for education and professional development for preservice educators are discussed.

Leadership, Professional Development and Higher Education Institutions: A Study of Constituent Campuses of Tribhuvan University

Leadership, Professional Development and Higher Education Institutions: A Study of Constituent Campuses of Tribhuvan University

Differences that Make a Difference: Adapting a Professional Development Program for the Post-COVID-New-Normal

The unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented challenges including a need for new curricula, pedagogy, and more accessible forms of professional development (PD). A gap in research exists regarding professional development of educators. This qualitative study used data collected from two surveys, a focus group, and a geographical distribution map. The analysis focuses on identifying factors that influence in-service educators when choosing and participating in an extended, elective PD that focuses on writing and its instruction over two years. Analysis of two online summer National Writing Project institutes revealed several motivators for participation including desires to improve pedagogical skills, online accessibility, and desire to participate in personal writing. Participants indicated a strong desire for the trainings be moved to a later date in the summer and to be offered online. These actionable requests were implemented in the second summer PD offering. Findings will be used to reframe professional development formats.

Professional Development of Future Teachers in the Sports and Event Environment of the University

Professional Development of Future Teachers in the Sports and Event Environment of the University

Conceptualising Intercultural Literacy: Narratives from English Language Teachers

This current study investigates how English language teachers in Indonesian higher educational institutions define and conceptualize intercultural literacy and practice it in their classrooms. Eight ELT practitioners were interviewed through narrative inquiry, and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis to explore their lived conceptualizations. The findings suggest three major themes on intercultural literacy, including conceptualization of intercultural literacy, implementation in professional practice, challenges in fostering intercultural understanding, and strategies to overcome these challenges. Teachers defined intercultural literacy as encompassing cultural understanding, adaptability, comparative analysis, and professional knowledge. They integrated it into their teaching through curriculum design, student-centered methods, and digital tools. This was done by weaving these into the curriculum design and retraining pedagogy with student-centric methods and other digital tools. However, the participants mentioned that they faced some obstacles, including institutional barriers, limited funding, and the difficulties of switching from the traditional to the newest teaching method. These issues were mitigated by professional development, collaboration, and inclusive instructional materials. The current research finding indicates the importance of comprehensive professional development and institutional support for teachers in developing intercultural competence in their students. These findings contribute to intercultural literacy in Indonesia and practical recommendations for improving it within Indonesian higher education. The finding highlights the how to prepare students for a globalized world through intercultural literacy and educator support.

Self-assessment for continuous professional development: The perspective of Islamic Education

This study was conducted to explore the concept of self-assessment that must be practiced by Islamic education teachers for continuous professional development, focusing on the views of Islamic education teachers (IETs). Since, the researcher is trying to collect further information, it is appropriate to employ a qualitative approach in the form of a case study. Six participants were selected using purposive sampling techniques based on specific criteria. Participants were chosen for their extensive experience in the field of Islamic Education, which provides them with versatility and knowledge of the practices of educators teaching Islamic Education. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted face-to-face and online. The findings revealed six themes: 1) the meaning of self-assessment, 2) the purpose of self-assessment, 3) aspects of self-assessment, 4) timing for conducting self-assessment, 5) the qualities of teachers who practice self-assessment, and 6) challenges in implementing self-assessment. Participants endeavored to enhance understanding of self-assessment practices by offering examples from various teaching roles and situations. Self-assessment plays a crucial role in cultivating reflective thinking and self-awareness among IETs, promoting positive and transformative changes in their professional journey. It fosters enthusiasm and encourages personal growth, thereby enhancing teaching practices within Islamic education. Self-assessment should ideally occur immediately after lessons or in response to specific events, and it is beneficial to be practiced continuously to ensure ongoing improvement and adaptability. Teachers who engage in self-assessment demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional development, contributing to a positive educational environment. Despite challenges, self-assessment empowers teachers to make informed decisions for improvement based on evaluation outcomes. This study serves as a crucial guideline and informational resource for IETs to align their professional development with current needs and advancements.

Creative Teaching in the Context of Educational Reform: Insights from the Perspective of In-service Teachers

Aim. This study aims to elucidate the multifaceted nature of creative teaching within the specific context of educational reform by exploring the nuanced perspectives of in-service teachers through their real-life teaching experiences. Methods. A qualitative approach was adopted, with semi-structured, vignette-based interviews with 19 teachers from elementary, junior high, and senior high schools in Taiwan. Data analysis followed reflexive thematic analysis methods. Results. The findings underscore that in-service teachers perceive creative teaching not as the creation of entirely new educational paradigms but rather as the adoption of unconventional methods. This entails the adaptive and strategic utilisation of diverse teaching methods, the integration of multidisciplinary content, and an enduring commitment to continuous improvement. It is an incremental process involving the continuous absorption of new concepts, the adaptation of new methods, and making progressive adjustments. Conclusion. Enhancing teachers’ creative teaching requires a context-specific understanding of its essence, facilitating targeted promotion and teacher education. This study addresses the research gap by qualitatively investigating teachers’ perspectives on creative teaching and its implementation. The insights gained in this study are crucial in guiding the effective integration of creativity into pedagogical practice within teacher education and professional development endeavours. Cognitive value. This study challenges the conventional notion that creative teaching involves the invention of entirely new methods, arguing instead that creative teaching is primarily concerned with the ways in which teachers implement unconventional approaches, rather than the novelty of those approaches. These findings offer a novel perspective on fostering creative teaching within teacher development endeavours.

Unveiling The Lived Experiences of School Heads in Managing Intergenerational Diversity among Proficient Teachers

This transcendental phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of school heads in managing intergenerational diversity among proficient teachers in public elementary schools in Noveleta, Cavite. Through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, the study revealed how generational differences impacted school management practices. Seven key themes emerged: Intergenerational Dynamics and Work Culture, Leadership and Adaptive Management Strategies, Technological Evolution and Pedagogical Adaptation, Communication, Collaboration, and Team Cohesion, Coping with Change and Navigating Resistance, Personal Well-being and Professional Growth, and Cultural and Societal Influences. The findings highlighted that school heads faced distinct challenges when managing generational gaps in work ethics, discipline, and professional values. Older generations of teachers, such as Baby Boomers and Generation X, exhibited stronger work ethics and commitment, often working through breaks to ensure student learning. In contrast, younger generations, particularly Generation Y and Z, were perceived to prioritize work-life balance and demonstrated less initiative. These differences posed significant challenges in fostering collaboration and innovation within schools. School heads employed adaptive strategies, such as empathetic leadership, fostering open communication, and promoting flexible solutions to bridge these generational divides. Moreover, the study emphasized the need for school management to address stereotypes and biases associated with different generations, creating inclusive environments that promoted cohesion and mutual respect. The implications extended to educational policies and professional development programs aimed at fostering intergenerational understanding and improving staff relations.

The Effectiveness of Teacher Professional Development Program on Classroom and Behavior Management: A Systematic Review

Aim. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of teacher professional development programs in enhancing classroom management and student behaviour control. Methods. Conducted through a systematic review, this research examines empirical studies published between 2016 and 2022. The focus is on evaluating the impact of professional development programs on teachers' abilities in classroom management and behaviour control. Results. The findings of the study reveal a positive correlation between participation in professional development programs and improvements in classroom management and behaviour control. Specifically, teachers' knowledge and skills in these critical areas are enhanced through such programs. Furthermore, the research demonstrates positive effects on student performance and achievement as a direct result of improved classroom management. Conclusion. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence of the effectiveness of teacher professional development programs in enhancing classroom management and student behaviour control. By synthesising findings from multiple studies, the research adds depth to our understanding of the relationship between professional development and teacher performance.

What are we inducting teachers of Color into? Disrupting race-evasiveness to create responsive professional development and mentoring policies and practices

Professional development and mentorship are key supports designed to facilitate growth and acclimation to the teaching profession as well as foster the stability and success of new educators. However, both fields of study have been occupied by a normalization of whiteness and white teachers, which often neglects the experiences, perspectives, and needs of teachers of Color. As we attempt to diversify the teaching force, it is important to understand how teacher professional development and mentorship can be responsive to teachers of Color. In this article, we review literature on teacher professional development and teacher mentorship for and by teachers of Color. Through the lens of our analysis, we explore limitations in current policy, and provide case study examples of how to serve teachers of Color. We also offer policy recommendations that can better guide racially literate and culturally sustaining professional development and mentoring practices, so teachers of Color can grow, thrive, and positively impact schools towards the goals for which they are being recruited.

Factors associated with Teachers’ Professional Development in Nepal

Community schools and institution schools are providing education for children in Nepal. The community schools are fully government funded and institutional school are not funded run by themselves from the student fees and other monitory sources. The professional developmental activity for community school teachers is conducted by government sector and the institutional schoolteachers are deprived from such opportunity. This study aimed to examine the factors associated with teachers’ professional development. Mixed methods research design along with sequential explorative involving quantitative followed by qualitative (Quan+Qual) had been employed in this study. Ten schools including five community schools and five institutional schools from Bhaktapur district were purposively selected. Total 40 mathematics and Nepali teachers including 20 from each community schools and institutional school were taken as respondents. The respondents were sent Google form by mentioning the variable as monitory and non-monitory incentives for teacher professional development. The response obtained from the Google form were tabulated in excel sheet to form percentage of frequency table. The findings revealed that the monitory incentives such as salary (95.5%), allowance and bonus (80%), insurance (77.5%) have high impact for teacher professional development and non-monitory incentives embraces promotion and security (87.5%), training and field visit (87.5%), attending in international conference (75%), inauguration (72.5%), praise and rewards (65%) have also commentary role for TPD. The monitory incentives play vital role for strengthening the professional efficacy of teacher. Likewise, non-monitory incentives are also the paramount importance as monitory incentives and lacks behind in the absence of it in the lines of teacher’s professional growth.

A systematic review of technology-enabled teacher professional development during COVID -19 pandemic

Technologies have the potential to support and enable teacher professional development (TPD) programs for inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all (United Nations, 2023). This paper reviews the technology-enabled TPD programs that took place during the COVID-19 pandemic and investigated their effectiveness on teachers' learning and professional growth. Drawing on the TPD@Scale model, we systematically analyzed the quality, equity, and efficiency dimensions of 37 technology-enabled TPD programs implemented during the pandemic. The findings demonstrate that technology-enabled TPD programs could develop teachers’ knowledge and skills critical to quality teaching during the pandemic and create environments that foster active learning and collaboration among teachers. However, there needs to be significant improvements in using technology to provide expert support and facilitate feedback and reflections. Furthermore, equity and efficiency were not specifically discussed in these TPD programs. Lessons learned from the present study have allowed us to provide recommendations to researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and educators.

Methodical system of training future english language teachers based on a complex of approaches

Introduction. The article describes a methodical system for developing professional competencies of future English language teachers based on communicative, cognitive and synergetic approaches. The relevance of the study is due to the need to ensure effective professional training of future teachers in the context of the increasing complexity of the educational environment and the diversity of student needs. The purpose of the study is to design a methodical system based on a complex of approaches that allows creating more adaptive and flexible conditions for the training and professional development of future English language teachers, taking into account modern requirements and challenges in the field of education. Materials and Methods. During the study, a theoretical analysis of scientific literature and legal documents on the issue under study was carried out, as well as a comparative analysis of existing concepts of methodical systems and models for the formation of professional competencies of future teachers. The methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison, generalization and modelling are used in the study. Results. As a result of theoretical and comparative analysis of scientific research, generalization of our own practical experience, a methodical system for developing professional competencies of future English language teachers based on a complex of approaches has been developed, its key components, which ensure the comprehensive and systematic nature of the educational process, have been described, as well as the mechanism of their interaction. All components of the system are presented in target, content, conceptual and methodical, effective blocks. Discussions and Conclusions. The development of a methodology for the formation of professional competencies of future English language teachers based on communicative, cognitive and synergetic approaches in the process of studying special disciplines with a focus on the integration of disciplinarydevelopment and the progressive formation of competencies is a prospect for further research.

Does the work environment matter in shaping English as a foreign language teachers’ teaching for creativity: A mixed‐methods investigation into the roles of perceived climate, peer group interaction, and supervisory relationship

AbstractTeachers play a critical role in fostering students’ creativity, especially in English as a foreign language (EFL) classes, known as teaching for creativity (TfC). Despite this, no comprehensive study has explored how the work environment influences EFL teachers’ TfC. Therefore, this study investigates how various holistic work environment factors affect TfC among Chinese EFL teachers. Drawing on the dynamic componential model of creativity, the study employs a mixed‐methods approach, combining quantitative data from a survey of 406 EFL teachers analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling in Smart PLS 3, and qualitative insights from semi‐structured interviews with 20 EFL teachers analyzed in MAXQDA 2022. The quantitative results reveal that perceived climate and peer group interaction positively and significantly impact TfC, whereas supervisory relationship (SR) does not show significant effects. The qualitative findings validate these outcomes and offer deeper insights into how PC and PGI specifically facilitate or impede TfC, alongside explanations for the non‐significant role of SR. Additionally, the qualitative analysis identifies another influential factor on TfC: teacher–student interaction. These findings carry theoretical and practical implications for teacher educators and the professional development of EFL teachers.

Teaching and Learning Process Transformation using New and Emerging IT Trends in the Nigerian Educational System

This study investigates how IT trends affect teaching and learning in the Nigerian educational system. It starts off with a summary of the current IT trends being used, such as the usage of technology in classrooms, accessibility to the internet, use of mobile devices and educational apps, and incorporation of virtual and augmented reality. The report then looks at how these IT trends have improved teaching and learning, including increased motivation and engagement, personalized learning experiences, easy access to a variety of learning resources, and chances for collaborative learning. However, there are obstacles to integrating IT trends into the Nigerian educational system, such as a lack of equipment and resources, a lack of digital literacy among teachers and students, reluctance to abandon the use of conventional teaching techniques, and privacy and security worries. The provision of professional development for teachers, the development of infrastructure and internet connectivity, the promotion of digital literacy, and addressing privacy and security issues are some of the strategies for successfully integrating IT trends in education. The study also provides examples of how IT trends have been successfully implemented in Nigerian schools, including the use of online tests, virtual and augmented reality in science instruction, and educational apps for individualized learning. Future directions and suggestions are then given, highlighting the necessity of increasing access to technology and internet connectivity, incorporating cutting-edge IT trends like artificial intelligence and machine learning, offering teachers ongoing professional development opportunities, and fostering collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and technology providers.