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An Online Professional Study Team
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Is a group of teachers who collaborate and explore on-line
and/or in-person to refine and improve instructional practices.
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Is data driven and linked to school and district goals.
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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 with colleagues
Preparation of a summary report and product that describes the results of the
learning
Sample Extended Learning Activities for Achieving
PST Goals:
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Discussion and analysis of recent research and how it relates
to classroom practice
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The study of professional best practices to better meet adult
and student learning needs
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The use of case studies to discuss instructional problems
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Problem solving groups that focus on the implementation of
new learning
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Examination of student work to set goals, critique and
refine instruction, improve assessment systems, etc.
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Observation and analysis of exemplary schools and classrooms
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Participation in Book Talks that impact professional practice
and student learning
Underlying Assumptions of Professional Development
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Continuous learning and reflection lead to improved
professional practice and/or increased student learning.
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Teachers, working together in collaboration, can develop
strategies for addressing many of the persistent problems of education.
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Collaborative problem solving fosters efficacy and
interdependence among staff.
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Adults learn well by structuring their own learning.
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Learning that is designed by the individual(s) must be
research based, data driven and centered on student learning.
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Learning must be linked to district, school, and professional
growth goals.
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Effective professional development generates results that are
talked about and shared with students and colleagues.
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