Enhancing classroom instruction through professional development
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Date
1995
Authors
Muschiol, Szandra
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 1995
Abstract
This study was initiated as a school-wide professional
development project with the primary focus on "improved
classroom instruction". The project was conducted during the
1993-1994 school year at Tilley School. The teaching staff
examined, in detail," Twenty Seven Methods" to improve
classroom instruction. An action research approach was
employed to analyze and document the results as teachers
experimented with various methods in their classrooms over the
ten month period. The teachers shared and discussed these
experiences at P.o. sessions held every second Wednesday of
each month. The researcher's own efforts to improve classroom
instruction by examining learning styles and introducing
various techniques into her classroom were documented through
personal observations and reflections. Questionnaires were
distributed to all teacher participants for an overall
evaluation of the P.O. project. Students from different grade
levels also responded to questionnaires, in an attempt by the
researcher to gain knowledge from students' perceptions of the
project.
The data tabulated from the teacher questionnaires indicated
strong support for the sharing and collegiality that occurred
during P.o. sessions. Examining one's teaching methodologies
in the light of student learning preferences and changing
curricula is a valuable experience. The results support the
vital role professional development plays in enhancing teacher
development.
Student results indicate there is a need for further
development of kinesthetic learning styles for students.
Students also want more input into their learning outcomes.
The ideas presented by the students are very insightful and
useful for determining future P.O. activities in the areas
studied.
Description
v, 72 leaves ; 29 cm.
Keywords
Employees -- Training of -- Teachers , Teaching -- Case studies