Designing Web-Based Professional Development to Improve Reading Instruction

• In Event: 25.030 - Pedagogical Practices in English Language Arts

Abstract

Our project is developing a comprehensive web-based professional development program for teachers to increase the quality of reading instruction. In this study, we present results of research conducted with two cohorts of teachers. We surveyed and interviewed teachers about their experience of the program, and collected videotaped lessons at baseline and throughout the program implementation to assess change in teachers’ instruction. Results indicate that teachers feel comfortable working in the online environment and believe that what they learned was useful and applicable in their teaching context. Early results also suggest an increase in the interactivity and rigor of classroom text discussions.

Authors

• Lindsay Clare Matsumura, University of Pittsburgh

• Donna D. Bickel, University of Pittsburgh

• Richard James Correnti, University of Pittsburgh

• Dena Zook-Howell, University of Pittsburgh

• Marguerite Walsh, University of Pittsburgh