Beyond Disruption: Creating a Model to Identify and Support Educator Professional Learning and Implementation Needs

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 9:45am
  In Poster Session: AERA Division K Section 6 In-Service Educators - Poster Session 1

Abstract

Educator professional development under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) remains fragmented, with time and resources affecting meaningful engagement. This study applies Beyond Disruption (Kim & Mauborgne, 2023), a business strategy framework, to create alternative, non-disruptive professional learning opportunities aligned with Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Using design-based research, the researchers conducted focus group interviews with six educators from varied regions and roles to identify unmet professional development needs and support strategies. Findings reveal that educators prioritize autonomy, relevance, and accessibility, particularly in adult learning. The study proposes a revised model of university and district collaboration that centers teacher agency while addressing systemic constraints. Results have implications for reshaping educator professional development and practice.

Authors

• Jenna Nelson, Concordia University - Chicago

• Hank Bohanon, Loyola University Chicago