A Short Guide to Action Research4th Edition

Andrew P. Johnson, Ph.D.Minnesota State University, Mankato

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Chapter 15: Strategies for Professional Growth and

Development

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ACTION RESEARCH AND THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF TEACHERS

1. Master teachers spend years learning, developing, and refining their teaching craft

2. Once in the field, professional development is up to each teacher and school district

3. Teaching practices need to continue to evolve

4. Action research is an efficient and effective method to address the professional development of teachers

Knowledge

1. Experts in any field have a substantial and organized body of knowledge

2. Expanding one’s knowledge base is one important form of professional development

3. Look for knowledge research related to teaching and learning, pedagogy, neuroscience and cognition, or specific subject areas

4. Devise a systematic reading plan

5. Subscribe to a peer-reviewed journal

6. Attend professional conferences

7. Take college courses or work on an advanced degree

8. Observe and analyze your own teaching practice