Making an impact with CPD

Issue 29

Photo of Margaret Alcorn

Margaret Alcorn, National CPD Coordinator

At the Building Windmills event a group of us discussed the worst CPD we'd ever had. For me it was a session on using the new technologies that were beginning to appear in schools. (It was a long time ago!) So on a cold Saturday, me and my pal trudged along to a local school to learn more.

Splash of water

It was awful. We were freezing; there were only enough computers for one between four and those worked only fitfully; we were not clear why we were there and the trainer had no idea how to bring tedious materials to life. Moreover I knew the chances of ever getting my hands on a computer back in school were small. What a disaster!

Why was it so bad? Well it was a one-off isolated experience, and I was learning out of context - never a good idea. I had gone along to chum a colleague not to address a development need. In a school with few computers, I knew there was likely to be few opportunities for me to process my learning by trying out new skills, nor could I make use of what I had learned in my classroom. In other words, there was no chance of impact on my practice.

By working together they have made a real difference to the learning of children and young people - and that's impact!

In contrast recent programmes such as Assessment is for Learning and Co-operative Learning have created excellent models of CPD by encouraging teachers to share new ways of working over an extended period, and creating opportunities to reflect together on successes and difficulties.

By working together they have made a real difference to the learning of children and young people - and that's impact!

Related websites

If you'd like to know more about CPD impact, Building Windmills, or any other aspect of CPD then visit www.ltscotland.org.uk/cpdscotland

You can also visit the CPD team's blog at http://ltsblogs.org.uk/cpdteam

 

37% OF VOTERS SAY

they do feel that fostering a sense of global citizenship in the classroom can have a long-term, positive effect on the wider world?

Be in with a chance of winning an amazing luxury break. All you have to do is sign up to our e-newsletter. Subscribe to our newsletter now.

Have your say

Latest comment...

would like to knowthe GTCS view on this scenario. I agree with Steve its a last option!