The Dreams, Possibilities, and Necessity of Educators' Professional Learning in North America

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Connecting to AERA 2018’s theme of “The Dreams, Possibilities, and Necessity of Public Education”, this symposium positions equitable access to high-quality professional learning for teachers and school leaders as an integral component of public education in North America. Drawing on findings from a major study of educators’ professional learning in Canada, reviews of the international literature and commentary from experts in the US and abroad, this symposia will present and discuss opportunities and challenges for teachers to experience meaningful and impactful professional learning, with an emphasis on two enabling conditions– resourcing (both human and financial) and teacher federations with strong professional agendas.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Educational Change

Chair

• Andy Hargreaves, Boston College

Papers

• Overview of the State of Educators' Professional Learning Across Canada - Carol Campbell, University of Toronto - OISE; Pamela Janie Osmond-Johnson, University of Regina; Brenton Cyriel Faubert, University of Western Ontario

• Resourcing Educators' Professional Learning: A Pan-Canadian Perspective - Brenton Cyriel Faubert, University of Western Ontario; Carol Campbell, University of Toronto - OISE; Pamela Janie Osmond-Johnson, University of Regina

• Supporting Educators' Professional Learning: The Work of Canadian Teacher Organizations - Pamela Janie Osmond-Johnson, University of Regina; Carol Campbell, University of Toronto - OISE; Brenton Cyriel Faubert, University of Western Ontario

Discussant

• Andy Hargreaves, Boston College