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A Professional Study Team is :
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Is a group of teachers who collaborate and
explore 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:
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Identification of a problem or
need based on data
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Development of a goal and a
plan to achieve that goal
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Anticipation in an extended learning activity with colleagues
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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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