As a teacher, professional development is crucial for enhancing skills, staying up-to-date with the latest teaching methods, and improving overall performance in the classroom. With the advent of technology, online professional development has become a popular option for teachers, offering accessibility, engagement, and flexibility. In this blog, we'll discuss the top 5 considerations for professional development for teachers.
Accessibility
One of the biggest advantages of online professional development is accessibility. Teachers can access the training materials from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have an internet connection. This eliminates the need for travel and allows teachers to work at their own pace.
Engagement
Online professional development provides teachers with interactive and engaging learning experiences. The use of multimedia, simulations, and games can help to make the learning experience more enjoyable and retainable. This type of interactive learning has been shown to increase teacher motivation and engagement in professional development activities. eLearning Industry states that “the value of increasing engagement is that it makes learning more enjoyable and motivating, therefore, helping to ensure learners stay involved, focused, and willing to extend the effort to learn the presented skills and knowledge.” [1]
Flexibility
Online professional development offers flexibility, allowing teachers to fit the training into their busy schedules. This means they can complete the training at a time that works best for them, whether it's during the school day, after work, or on weekends. This flexibility is particularly important for teachers who may have other commitments outside of work. McKinsey reported that 87 percent of employees take the opportunity to work remotely when presented with the option which extends to teacher professional development and the increased expectation of flexibility.
Relevance
Online professional development provides teachers with a wide range of training options, allowing them to choose courses that are relevant to their specific needs. This means they can focus on areas they need to improve, rather than taking courses that may not be directly applicable to their teaching style or subject area.
Cost-effectiveness
Online professional development is often more cost effective than traditional in-person training. This is because it eliminates the need for travel and accommodation expenses. Furthermore, many online professional development courses are offered at a lower cost than in-person courses, making them more accessible to teachers with limited budgets. Gamelearn reports that “online learning can offer savings of 70% or more compared to other traditional training methods.”
In conclusion, professional development is an essential aspect of a teacher's career. The rise of online professional development provides teachers with accessibility, engagement, and flexibility, making it a valuable option for those looking to enhance their skills and improve their performance in the classroom. Consider these top 5 considerations when choosing a professional development course and make the most of the opportunities available to you.
[1] https://elearningindustry.com/engagement-in-online-courses-and-training-developed-as-result-of-covid
[2] https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/real-estate/our-insights/americans-are-embracing-flexible-work-and-they-want-more-of-it
[3] https://www.game-learn.com/en/resources/blog/why-online-learning-is-profitable-and-efficient-for-companies/
