The article describes a study that explores how teachers participating in PD courses perceive the qualities and benefits of such courses, and the variables that affect these perceptions. A secondary goal of the study was to determine whether it is possible to differentiate between variables inherent in the manner in which the courses are conducted and other variables. The study findings validate the strong connection between two key compounded variables affecting outcomes of PD programs: teachers' professional and personal motivation towards the program and the relevancy of the program contents to their needs. Motivation is further enhanced through the trainee's participation in the program, thereby constituting a major leverage for reaching the PD goals and achieving beneficial outcomes.