"Throwing Flowers at Myself": Professional Development Network Participation and Educators' Self-Perceived Quality

• In Event: 34.055 - Gaining Support Through Teachers' Professional Networks

Abstract

Findings from a seven-nation study show educators to perceive their attainment of professional capital—talent, collaborative power, wisdom, expertise—from participating in an innovative professional development network. Following Turbill’s professional learning model, we observed International Baccalaureate Educator Network members occupying intersectional spaces between their own theories and practices and those of new colleagues from around the world. Employing Brinkerhoff’s Success Case Method and sampling sites for maximum variation along seven dimensions, we generated highly reliable data, showing how nearly all educators expanded self-perceived quality as more skilled/confident, attaining a metaphorical merit ‘badge’, or growing in other ways through explicit professional development. We discuss implications for the network as a professional capital vehicle for disaffected educators who sorely need it.

Authors

• Michael Thier, International Baccalaureate

• Jandee Todd, Educational Policy Improvement Center

• Kristine L. Chadwick, Educational Policy Improvement Center