Advantages of Creating Shorter Self-Paced Video Content
Short, self-paced video content is highly effective for professional development (PD) because it allows educators to engage with material at their own pace and revisit content as needed. According to Dr. Lodge McCammon’s work at Rutgers University, creating bite-sized, focused video lessons enables educators to absorb information without feeling overwhelmed by lengthy presentations. These videos encourage active learning, as viewers can pause, reflect, or practice skills in real-time. Additionally, shorter videos make it easier to integrate PD into a busy educator's schedule, allowing for more flexibility and individualized learning (McCammon, 2019).
Collaboration-Inspiring Activities in Professional Development
Activities such as peer feedback, group discussions, and collaborative problem-solving are powerful because they encourage educators to exchange ideas and support one another in implementing new strategies. These activities can be integrated into PL sessions by including breakout sessions where educators work together on lesson planning or problem-solving.
Benefits of Walk & Talk
"Walk and talk" is a strategy encouraged by McCammon. It promotes active engagement and reflection. By physically moving while discussing ideas, participants experience both mental and physical stimulation, which enhances creativity and communication.
Modeling PL
Flipped or self-directed PL needs to be modeled because it provides educators with a clear example of how the approach can work in their classrooms. By seeing it in action, teachers can better understand how to implement similar strategies with their students. Modeling also helps to break down the fear of trying new methods by showing that they are practical and manageable. Modeling self-directed learning could be shown by allowing educators to select their own learning goals and work at their own pace, much like the COVA model suggests. Offering a choice of learning activities, such as video content, collaborative projects, or independent research, would give educators the flexibility to engage in ways that suit their learning style. By modeling this self-directed approach, educators would feel more confident implementing similar methods in their classrooms, fostering a culture of lifelong learning.
Becoming More Childlike in Our Learning
Peter Gray emphasizes the importance of adopting childlike qualities such as curiosity, playfulness, and self-directed learning in education. Gray advocates for allowing learners the freedom to explore topics that interest them, much like children do during play. Educators can become more childlike by embracing a growth mindset, asking more questions, and allowing themselves to experiment and make mistakes. By fostering an environment where both teachers and students are encouraged to take risks and follow their curiosity, learning becomes more meaningful and engaging (Gray, 2016).
Reference
Gray, P. (2016). Self-Directed Learning Fundamentals. [Video] Youtube.https://youtu.be/YoE480mzrk0
McCammon, L. (2019). Modeling-Based (Flipped) Professional Development at Rutgers University [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/PBAmcveOnIM
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