An Online 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 online and/or in-person 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 online instructional unit for standards-based curriculum that reflects student needs

• Development and implementation of online assessments for standards-based curriculum that reflect student needs.

• Completion of a pre-approved online undergraduate college course intended to strengthen content knowledge in a specific field, i.e. art, science, math, literacy **

• Use of online case studies to monitor and evaluate instruction and student learning

• Translation of online experiences 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.