Improving Impact Studies of Teachers’ Professional Development: Toward Better Conceptualizations and Measures

Source: Educational Researcher, Vol. 38, No. 3, 181-199 ( April 2009).

The author suggests to apply recent research knowledge to improve the conceptualization, measures, and methodology for studying the effects of teachers’ professional development on teachers and students. She makes the case that there is a research consensus to support the use of a set of core features and a common conceptual framework in professional development impact studies. She urges to move away from automatic biases either for or against observation, interviews, or surveys in such studies. She argues that the use of a common conceptual framework would elevate the quality of professional development studies and subsequently the general understanding of how best to shape and implement teacher learning opportunities for the maximum benefit of both teachers and students.