Toward Situational Professional Development (PD): Comparing Principals’ PD Needs With District PD Provision

• In Event: Professional Development for Principals: Fidelity, Accountability, and Context

Abstract

The purposes of this survey research study were to explore the areas in which principals with different levels of leadership experience perceive they most need PD; to investigate the modes of delivery and the content areas in which districts currently provide PD, and to discover the delivery formats principals prefer. While similarities and differences occurred in areas of need among the experience levels, overall, principals gave priority to PD in instructional leadership, using data to inform decision-making, and in conflict management and relationship building. While districts provided PD in the former two areas, conflict resolution and relationship building were neglected. Principals preferred PD that included networking and problem-solving opportunities. Recommendation: Districts should ensure they deliver PD that meets individual needs.

Authors

• Heather E. Duncan, University of Wyoming

• Bret Range, University of Wyoming

• Suzanne Young, University of Wyoming

• Maryalice Bruce, University of Wyoming