#Professional Learning and Development

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A Complete Guide to Professional Learning and Development in Schools

Education is always changing. New teaching methods, digital tools, and learning strategies are constantly emerging. To keep up with these changes, teachers and school staff need continuous training and development. This is where Professional Learning and Development (PLD) plays a crucial role in improving education.

Professional Learning and Development helps teachers gain new skills, understand modern teaching techniques, and create a better learning environment for students. In this guide, we will explore what PLD is, why it is important, and how schools can implement effective learning and development programs.

What is Professional Learning and Development (PLD)?

PLD refers to the ongoing training and education of teachers, school leaders, and other educators. It ensures that they stay updated with the latest teaching methods, curriculum changes, and educational technology. PLD can take different forms, such as workshops, online courses, mentoring, and conferences.

The goal of PLD is simple: to help teachers improve their skills and knowledge so they can provide better education for students.

Why is PLD Important in Schools?

Professional Learning and Development is essential for schools because it directly impacts student success. When teachers improve their teaching methods, students benefit from better lessons, more engaging activities, and a stronger learning environment. Here are a few reasons why PLD is crucial:

1. Improves Teaching Skills

Education is not static—it evolves over time. New research in learning science, technology integration, and classroom management means that teachers must continuously learn and adapt. PLD helps them improve their skills and bring fresh ideas into the classroom.

2. Boosts Student Achievement

Research shows that high-quality teacher training leads to better student performance. When teachers receive proper guidance and support, they can deliver lessons more effectively, making learning easier and more enjoyable for students.

3. Encourages the Use of Technology

With the rise of digital learning tools, teachers need to stay updated on how to integrate technology into their lessons. PLD helps educators learn how to use online resources, interactive apps, and smart classroom tools.

4. Promotes Collaboration

PLD often involves teachers working together, sharing experiences, and learning from one another. This teamwork builds a strong school community where educators support and inspire each other.

5. Enhances Job Satisfaction

Teachers who receive continuous training feel more confident and motivated. They are better prepared for classroom challenges, which leads to higher job satisfaction and a lower teacher burnout rate.

Different Types of PLD for Schools

There are many ways schools can provide professional learning and development opportunities for teachers. Here are some of the most effective ways to provide professional learning and development opportunities for teachers:

1. Workshops and Seminars

Workshops are short training sessions where teachers learn new skills and practice techniques. These can focus on topics like:

Classroom management

Teaching students with special needs

Digital learning tools

Mental health and well-being

2. Mentoring and Coaching

Pairing experienced teachers with new or struggling teachers can create a supportive learning environment. Mentors provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement, helping others improve their teaching practices.

3. Online Courses and Webinars

With the rise of e-learning, teachers can now take online courses and webinars from anywhere. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Google for Education offer valuable training programs on various teaching topics.

4. Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)

PLCs are small groups of teachers who meet regularly to discuss challenges, share best practices, and improve their teaching strategies. This is a great way for teachers to learn from each other.

5. Peer Observations

Teachers can learn a lot by observing their colleagues. Schools can encourage peer observations, where teachers sit in on each other’s lessons, exchange feedback, and suggest improvements.

6. Conferences and Educational Events

Attending education conferences gives teachers exposure to new teaching strategies, research findings, and innovative classroom tools. These events also provide opportunities for networking with other educators.

7. Reading and Research

Encouraging teachers to read educational books, research papers, and articles can help them stay informed about new trends in education.

How Schools Can Implement a Strong PLD Program

A well-designed PLD program can bring lasting benefits to teachers and students. Here are the key steps schools can take to create an effective PLD program:

1. Assess Teacher Needs

Before planning training sessions, schools should survey teachers to understand their challenges and areas for growth. This ensures that the PLD program is relevant and useful.

2. Set Clear Goals

Every PLD initiative should have a clear objective. For example:

Improve digital learning skills

Support students with special needs

Enhance classroom management strategies

Having a clear goal ensures that training sessions are focused and effective.

3. Provide Regular Training

PLD should not be a one-time event. Schools should organize ongoing training opportunities throughout the year. This can include monthly workshops, online courses, or guest speaker sessions.

4. Encourage Collaboration

Teachers should be encouraged to share ideas and experiences. Creating discussion forums, peer observation programs, and learning communities can make training more impactful.

5. Use Technology for Training

Schools can use e-learning platforms, recorded webinars, and digital resources to make training flexible and accessible. This allows teachers to learn at their own pace.

6. Provide Feedback and Support

Teachers should receive ongoing feedback to track their progress. Schools can also provide coaching sessions to support teachers in applying their new skills.

7. Evaluate and Improve

After each training session, schools should collect feedback from teachers to understand what worked well and what can be improved. This helps make future PLD programs more effective.

Conclusion

Professional Learning and Development is essential for schools to ensure that teachers stay updated, motivated, and effective. It directly influences student success by improving the quality of education. By implementing a strong PLD program, schools can create an environment where teachers thrive, students excel, and education evolves.

Whether through workshops, mentoring, online courses, or collaboration, investing in PLD is an investment in the future of learning. Schools that prioritize PLD will not only support their teachers but also build a brighter future for their students.

[thisisgraeme]

A Closer Look at Ako Aotearoa’s Tapatoru Programme: Bringing Cultural Values to the Classroom

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Hey there, folks! Today, we’re diving into something really special – the Tapatoru Programme and Award by Ako Aotearoa. This isn’t just another educational initiative; it’s a game-changer in how we approach tertiary teaching in Aotearoa New Zealand. Let’s unpack what makes Tapatoru so unique and why it’s making waves in tertiary education. Background: A Journey Through Time Did you know that…

[rthidden]

What is an Algorithm in 30 Seconds?

An algorithm is simply a series of instructions.

Think of a recipe: boil water, add pasta, wait, drain, eat. These are steps to follow.

In computer terms, an algorithm is a set of instructions for a computer to execute.

In machine learning, these instructions enable computers to learn from data, making machine learning algorithms unique and powerful.

[ruvviks]

fun art comparison for you

[chaosbyincorporated]

notable teacher moments #1

STORYTIME!!!

for initial context, i teach kindergarten.

one day, as we sat around a pretend campfire- roasting marshmallows and using books as firewood, a child handed me a purple sensory toy and told me it looked like a hedgehog. so naturally, i immediately called a town hall meeting to demand that this sponge be properly named.

long story short, i made Jerric the fucking Hedgehog my entire personality for the next three months of my life.

fast forward to present day, and our class pet has since been professionally fitted into a Vera Wang ballgown (don't fact check) and adorned with a matching Abe Lincoln top hat, that not only compliments his figure but his outlandish personality too.

he has a cage, renovated by the Property Brothers themselves (don't fact check). and my students now take turns taking him home for the occasional sleepover.

moral of the story? if you were to jump off a cliff, don't be surprised if a clan of thirty kindergarteners followed behind you.

[minimally-incompetent]

Ahhhh I start voice lessons today wish me luck

[concorp]

having majored in game design when i love watching the kinda stuff most often made by amateurs was a mistake i want to rip my hair out so often 😭

[captaingimpy]

The Generalist Mindset: Why It’s Better to Be “Good Enough” at Everything

In a world that constantly pushes for specialization, being a generalist—a “jack of all trades”—can sometimes feel like swimming against the current. That old saying, “jack of all trades, master of none,” often gets thrown around as a warning against spreading yourself too thin. But people forget the full expression: “jack of all trades, master of none, but better than a master of one.” And that…

[kids-worldfun]

Are Online IT Courses Suitable for Career Changers?

Career change is a bold decision that requires determination and consideration for the development of proper skill sets. On the other hand, one of the most effective ways to build such skills for those who wish to transition into the field of technology will be through online IT courses. Whichever sector one comes from—be it finance, marketing, education, or any other sector—IT has huge…

[youploger]

Discover a Wealth of Educational Videos and E-Books – Accelerate Your Learning Journey!

Unlock the power of knowledge with our vast collection of educational videos and e-books.

What You’ll Find:

Comprehensive Learning Materials: From step-by-step video tutorials to in-depth e-books, explore a wide range of subjects, including business, technology, personal development, arts, and more. Expert-Led Instruction: Gain insights from industry professionals and subject-matter experts who provide clear, practical lessons. Flexible Learning: Study at your own pace with downloadable e-books and videos that fit into your schedule, accessible anytime and anywhere.

[rthidden]

The Frame Problem: AI's Unseen Nemesis

The frame problem is AI's Achilles' heel, lurking since the 1960s and still unresolved.

1. The Robot Dilemma

Daniel Dennett's thought experiment illustrates the issue: a robot must save its battery from a room with a bomb.

Initially, the robot pulls the battery on a cart but also drags the bomb out, unaware of this side effect.

Solution attempts include programming awareness of side effects, leading to analysis paralysis as the robot debates endless possibilities.

2. The Side Effect Spiral

When programmed to consider all side effects, the robot wastes time on irrelevant details—like pondering wall color changes.

This shows how difficult it is for AI to filter relevant from irrelevant information without getting bogged down.

3. Human Intuition vs. AI Logic

Humans effortlessly ignore irrelevant details, making quick decisions in complex contexts.

Programming AI to mimic this selective ignorance is resource-intensive and remains a significant challenge.

The frame problem underscores a subtle yet crucial aspect of human intelligence: our ability to instantly prioritize relevant information. As we advance in AI development, solving this problem will be key to creating truly intelligent systems.

Got thoughts on tackling the frame problem? Share your ideas!

[harmonyhealinghub]

The Indispensable Lessons I Learned from Working in Retail

Shaina Tranquilino

February 4, 2024

Transitioning from full-time retail work to a career as an educational assistant at a school was undoubtedly a significant change for me. However, even with my reduced hours in retail, I quickly realized that the valuable lessons learned during my years of working in customer service continue to shape and enhance my professional growth. In this blog post, I will delve into how my background in retail has proven to be an invaluable asset in my current role and beyond.

1. Effective Communication Skills:

One of the key takeaways from my retail experience is the ability to communicate effectively. Whether it's interacting with customers or collaborating with colleagues, strong communication skills are crucial. My time in retail taught me how to listen actively, empathize with others' concerns, and express myself clearly and concisely – all traits that have been invaluable when assisting students with their unique needs and facilitating effective teamwork among educators.

2. Adaptability and Resilience:

Working in retail often meant dealing with unpredictable situations and challenging customers. This environment forced me to learn how to adapt swiftly while maintaining composure under pressure. These skills have proved essential when faced with unexpected situations within the school setting, such as handling emergencies or adapting lesson plans on short notice. The resilience developed through countless encounters with demanding customers has helped me remain calm and focused during high-stress moments.

3. Customer Service Excellence:

Customer service lies at the heart of any successful business, including schools, where parents and students are our valued "customers." My previous retail experience ingrained in me the importance of providing exceptional service by going above and beyond expectations. This mindset now translates into ensuring that every interaction I have within the school community is characterized by attentiveness, understanding, and dedication.

4. Problem-solving Abilities:

Retail work constantly presents challenges that require creative problem-solving skills. From resolving conflicts between customers to finding alternative solutions when faced with product shortages, I honed my ability to think on my feet and find practical resolutions. These problem-solving skills are transferable to my role as an educational assistant and other areas of my life, where I encounter various obstacles daily, such as addressing behavioral issues or adapting teaching approaches to accommodate diverse learners.

5. Time Management:

One of the most valuable lessons from working in retail is understanding how vital efficient time management is. Balancing multiple responsibilities simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines is a skill developed through years of organizing inventory, handling customer requests promptly, and managing shifts effectively. This proficiency has proven invaluable in juggling the demands of both my school job and part-time retail position without compromising quality or effectiveness in either.

While transitioning from full-time retail work to a career in education was a significant shift for me, it's clear that the experiences gained during my time in retail continue to shape and enhance my professional growth today. From effective communication skills to adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving abilities, the lessons learned have seamlessly integrated into my educational assistant role, providing me with a unique perspective and a well-rounded skill set. Embracing these learnings has not only enriched my interactions with students but also empowered me to excel in various aspects of life beyond the workplace.

[cryingclarinetist]

Just Professional Development Things

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https://kalinkainfotech.com/life-time-empower-yourself-with-a-list-of-free-udemy-courses/

Unlock Your Full Potential with Free Udemy Courses

In the digital age, continuous learning and personal growth are just a few clicks away. Udemy, a renowned online learning platform, offers a plethora of free Udemy courses that cater to diverse interests and ambitions. Let's explore a selection of these courses that can help you unlock your full potential and take your skills to new heights.