RSA#2 - Professional Development

When it comes to professional development, there is reluctance among teachers (social studies in particular) of engaging in it.  Part of it is that we tend to get contradictory instruction but also that we feel that it is a waste of time.  So what would work better?  

In order for professional development to be more effective, it is imperative that the training to be content-focused and coherent in instruction (“Teaching Teachers”, 2005).  Let’s start with content-specific.  The issue social studies teachers face is that their content is not tested, and therefore it is not relevant at all in the eyes of my school district.  Therefore, there isn’t much direction in content development and we are on our own.  It would be useful to have some leadership and direction.

So, what are we supposed to focus on instead?  Common Core seems like a good place to go. While it is a lighting rod issue, it isn't really all that different from what we are trying to get students to learn. The social studies department has been told to focus on the reading aspect of the test, which involves reading multiple documents on topics within the field.  But since the content could be virtually anything, it is important for students to acquire the skills. 

But since this is new, we should receive instruction in it, right?  Well, it turns out that most teachers have not received professional development in Common Core (Gerwitz, 2013).  Like in any new test or teaching strategy, there will obviously be some issues if it is not addressed.  But, even if professional development is given, it needs to be coherent (“Teaching Teachers”, 2005).  I have received one day of Common Core instruction and I am still confused as to what we are supposed to focus on.  We need more training in exactly how to teach students to read at a higher level, no matter what the test or teaching strategy is.

Gerwitz, C. (2013). Study: Many Teachers Need Common-Core Professional Development.  Retrieved from http://blogs.edweek.org.cucproxy.cuchicago.edu/edweek/curriculum/2013/08/many_teachers_need_common_core_professional_development.html?qs=professional+development

Teaching Teachers: Professional Development to Improve Student Achievement (2005). Research Points: Essential Information for Education Policy.  3(1), 1-4. Retrieved from http://blackboard.cuchicago.edu/bbcswebdav/pid-1043267-dt-content-rid-4447018_2/courses/9058.201430/5801_ImportedContent_20130823075615/AERA_Teaching_Teachers.pdf