There are many types of PD, ranging from intensive single or multiple day workshops to ongoing in-depth process-oriented models. Each type may be appropriate at different times for different participants, but all should be considered when a school district is making decisions regarding how to best assist their staff in meeting their PD requirements and interests. Some examples are:
Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)
- Group focused - brings greater resources together
- Collaborative effort among PLC members - voluntary, committed, parity among members, common goals
- Extended time commitment -requires time for individual and group research and communication
Group Workshops
- Group focused - often provided for mass audiences
- Cost-effective – more “bang for the buck”
Coaching
- Individually focused - one-on-one or small group
- Emphasis on observation & feedback - often as mentoring for new teachers
Individual PD
- Individually focused
- Driven by perceived needs or interests - especially for specialized knowledge or when other means are not available