Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about professional development (PD).
- How it is delivered
- How it is received
- Who participates
- Who is a natural professional developer
- Who is uncomfortable in the role
- How it can occur through social media, personal conversations, professional readings, or through workshops
I often wonder why “life-long learning” is part of so many educators’ vision, mission, or belief statements, yet active participation in true learning through professional development doesn’t come easily or naturally to many of those same educators. Why do we think we are done learning when we enter our own classroom? How do administrators continue their learning once they become leaders? Do all educators believe that they have more to learn: from one another, from others, from within?
I LOVE learning through reading and discussion with colleagues. I LOVE planning, facilitating, and participating in engaging PD. I LOVE participating in #Satchat and other twitter conversations with new colleagues from around the globe; I am challenged to think about new and different ideas as I hear what others are trying in their schools/districts. I have just begun my doctoral studies and am reading a lot of leadership and research books for my first month of classes. I look forward to dialogue with my cohort throughout this three-year process.
I know that not all of my colleagues share my love of these things. What can we do, as leaders, to support on-going learning for all educators? How do we redefine our expectations so that adult learning is part of our conversations?
Just some of my thoughts at this time. What are your thoughts on this topic?
Reflections on Leadership and Learning 
I think actions speak louder than words. It’s one thing to say all the things we believe in and another thing to put them into action. I can see you are someone that puts things into action.
I enjoy learning from you!
Thank you Cynthia! I think we need to challenge each other to do more!
Today was a perfect example of ALL of us #SBUSD, learning together: administrators, coaches and teachers. I enjoyed the conversations we had today at our first Common Core Council meeting. Our discussions required us to THINK deeply and ask WHY questions as we analyzed what and how we teach. I, too enjoy learning. I believe the best way we can share our love of learning is by modeling. It is important to provide safe environments for both students and adult learners. It is ok to admit we don’t have all the answers. A quote by Lawrence Clark Powell comes to mind, “Write to be understood, speak to be heard, read to grow…”
Thanks for leading us today and congratulations on your doctoral journey.