Humanizing Professional Learning: Equity, Agency, and Well-being Across California Subject Matter Projects

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This session brings together three studies from across the California Subject Matter Projects (CSMP) that explore the transformative potential of discipline-specific professional learning. Each study investigates how sustained, standards-aligned teacher development impacts instructional practice, teacher efficacy, and educational equity. From integrating computational thinking in STEM to advancing equity in mathematics through focal student inquiry, and supporting world language teachers’ implementation of student-centered pedagogy, these projects reveal the power of professional learning that is content-rich, collaborative, and deeply humanizing. The studies offer insights into how PL can cultivate not only pedagogical skill but also teacher wellbeing and professional identity. The session contributes to national conversations about designing effective professional learning that fosters lasting instructional change and supports a thriving educator workforce.

Sub Unit

• Division K - Teaching and Teacher Education / Division K - Section 06: In-Service Teacher Professional Development

Chair

• Claudia Louise Martinez, University of California, Office of the President

Papers

• Integrating Computational Thinking in STEM: Supporting Teacher Efficacy Through Professional Learning - Maria Chiara Simani, University of California - Riverside; Jon Kovach, University of California - Irvine

• Focal Students as Catalysts for Equity in Mathematics Lesson Study - Kyndall A. Brown, University of California - Los Angeles

• Transforming World Language Pedagogy Statewide Through Standards-Based Professional Learning - Margaret Peterson, Stanford University; Eduardo Rafael Munoz-Munoz, San José State University

Session Organizer

• Margaret Peterson, Stanford University

Discussant

• Alejandro Sandoval, University of California