PD on Demand: Micro Learning Options for Teachers
PD on Demand is a way in which school leaders provide ongoing learning opportunities for teachers without the cost of time. Being able to increase teacher skillset and knowledge without it requiring extensive amounts of time is a winning solution.
Why do we need micro PD options for teachers?
One thing that seems to be harder and harder to fit in to the schedule is teacher PD. There is so much to get done in classrooms and around the school building, that coming together to learn after school hours is difficult. The sit-and-get PD model isn’t translating to instructional proficiency. Teachers need opportunities to dig into the learning rather than passively sitting and listening. Oftentimes there is no time left for reflection and planning for execution after the teacher PD content is delivered. This is a missed opportunity to increase the likelihood that teachers are able to successfully apply what they just learned.
Intention to grow is there. Time to grow isn’t.
One way we have helped schools pivot their PD delivery is to offer smaller doses more often. Learning in micro form consistently over time allows time for reflection and planning for execution. And, as a result, the impact of PD is sticking. Teachers are growing and students are thriving.
What is PD on Demand?
PD on Demand is small, bite-sized learning opportunities based on a singular topic. Teachers and leaders can select the one offering that best fits with their current focus for improvement. Then, teachers consume the content on their own time. The content could include short video clips, articles to read, activities to try, etc. Over the course of a few weeks, teachers are slowly learning, implementing and noting their progress.
There is a deadline for proof of application for accountability purposes. Items to collect to showcase impact of learning could be pre-planning documents paired with reflection of execution, data samples, coaching cycle participation, student artifacts etc. The goal is not to just consume information, but to use new information to positively impact instruction.
PD on Demand Learning Opportunities
Once teachers start engaging in ongoing, bite-sized PD, they won’t want to go back to lengthy learning ever again! Allow them to grow their skills in a convenient yet productive way. This is how you will be able to transform learning in your building for teachers.
Below are current PD on Demand learning opportunities teachers can dig into:
- Routines & Procedures
- Increasing Student Talk
- Student Engagement
- High Leverage Practice for Students with Disabilities
- Supporting English Language Learners
Additional Reading
If you found this helpful and are looking for similar topics to consider, two suggestions are shared below:
- One way to warm up to micro PD options is to conduct a PD Huddle at your school site. Give this a try first before diving into more thorough options like PD on Demand.
- Read “Always A Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success” to gain strategies for improving areas of instruction, such as lesson design, classroom management, student engagement and student ownership.
GO BE GREAT!
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.