An
Independent Study
-
Is
learning that is
designed
and individually
guided
by the participant.
-
Is
data driven and linked to school and district goals.
-
Can
take many forms, but is structured in four phases:
-
Identification of a problem or need based on data
-
Development of a goal and a plan to achieve that goal
-
Participation in an extended learning activity which, at some
point, includes collaboration with other educators
-
Preparation of a summary report and product that describes the
results of the learning
Sample
Extended Learning Activities for Achieving Independent Study
Goals:
Expanding
your professional knowledge and skill base through:
-
Development and implementation of an instructional unit for
standards-based curriculum that reflects student needs
-
Development and implementation of assessments for
standards-based curriculum that reflect student needs.
Completion of a preapproved undergraduate college course
intended to strengthen content knowledge in a specific
field, i.e. art, science, math, literacy
**
Use of
case studies to monitor and evaluate instruction and student
learning
Translation of travel experience into classroom instruction
and tools that are useful to improved student learning
**
Undergraduate courses in
Spanish and Technology no longer require prior approval or
completion of an independent study application to be
accepted for professional development/salary credit.
Underlying Assumptions of Professional Development
-
Continuous learning and reflection lead to improved
professional practice and/or increased student learning.
-
Adults
learn well by structuring their own learning.
-
Collaborative problem solving fosters efficacy and
interdependence among staff.
-
Learning that is designed by the
individual(s) must be research based, data driven and
centered on student learning.
-
Learning must be linked to district,
school, and professional growth goals.
-
Effective professional development
generates results that are talked about and shared with
students and colleagues.
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