I just read an article in which the author talks about the difference between training and professional development. His article provoked me into deep reflection about this topic. Here is what he says:
- "Training is conducted to deepen knowledge about a specific product or strategy.Professional development is on-going learning that is connected to classroom practice and should produce changes in practice and enhance instruction over time."
I would love to know your thoughts about that statement?
5 comments:
During the conference in Williamsburg, I went to a breakout session about Professional Learning Communities. The CTIG is a great example of an engaging ongoing professional development community. I am now thinking of trying to start another... any ideas for topics?
Professional development is comprised of many elements, at times one of those elements is training.
I would agree with this statement. The "What's cool in school" segments of our faculty meetings are another example of ongoing professional development. I get great ideas from my peers.
Actually learning what I need to know to pull one off in my classroom would fall under training.
I'm with Cheryl on this one - training is an element of Professional Development. For example, we might be trained on the Smartboard how to use the Gallery and how to search for pre-made lessons. But, for professional develpment, I would have to know how to apply it in a math classroom with middle schoolers and how to integrate it with other technology. By the way, I have graphing calculators, vernier probes, and a webcam working with the Smart Board now.
I had never thought about training vs. prof development in that way, but I do think it's accurate for me. The whole "training" thing is what I find frustrating at times. I'll go to a one-day workshop, and I'll find great inspiration and some practical ideas, but I don't usually leave with a feeling of deep understanding-especially with the writing workshops I've gone to lately. I feel like I've gotten some superficial ideas, but not quite the bigger picture I'm looking for. However, there are times when I do want the quick fix of training. Sometimes that's all it takes to help me look at my classroom goals in a new way.
Post a Comment