professional development
Educational opportunities for school teachers and administrative personnel with goals of personal and professional growth, and school improvement. Professional development is often called staff development.
See also in-service training, personal growth plan.
Additional information
Ongoing professional development is generally a requirement in a teacher’s personal growth plan, with minimum requirements required to maintain licensure. Professional development opportunities include in-service training, continuing education courses, and advanced certification such as National Board Certification. Research shows that the least effective professional development training is the one-shot workshop model favored in many districts. More effective models involve collaborative learning opportunties, consistent feedback and follow-up, and strong school leadership involvement.
Examples and resources
Education Week further explores the topic at their "Professional Development" site.
