Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Evolution of the Professional Development Models
The next section describes different iterations of the PD models used throughout
the course of the research project (see Table 15.1). The hallmark of all iterations
is the use of authentic design problems. Early in the workshop, PD participants are
asked to select an authentic instructional problem or need in their classroom (e.g., a
new curricular unit, a lesson students struggle with), and to design a solution using
online learning resources and the IA. Participants were then asked to implement
their design in their classrooms.
Table 15.1
Overview of models and implementation studies
Model Model characteristics
Date
N
Delivery
1
Authentic problem,
design-centered approach
Spring 2004
14
F2F workshop
Spring 2007
20
F2F workshop
Fall 2008
19
F2F workshop
2
Problem-based learning:
simple-to-complex approach
Fall 2006
49
Online module
Fall 2008
29
Online module
3
Problem-based learning: design
approach
Fall 2008
24
F2F workshop
Spring 2009
20
F2F workshop
Each iteration of the model was also evaluated. Evaluation studies focused on
gauging the impact of the workshops on participants' technology knowledge and
attitudes, and (short- and long-term) behaviors with regard to their use of and design
with the IA. Finally, each evaluation measured participant satisfaction with the PD
program.
Evaluation strategies and measures generally remained consistent across all PD
workshops, although specific prompts and items evolved. At the start and end of the
PD, participants completed online surveys, consisting of both open-ended and likert
scale items. They also completed short reflection papers, describing their classroom
implementation experiences. In addition, as the IA is a Web-based environment,
Web-usage data were automatically collected during participants' online activities
(called
webmetrics
(Khoo et al., 2008). Selected participants were also invited to
participate in focus group interviews to provide more in-depth reports about their
experiences.
Model 1: Authentic Problem and Design Centered
The first model that was developed was structured as face-to-face (f2f) workshops
delivered as two 4-h workshops, separated by classroom implementation activities.
This model consisted of the following six core activities:
1. A motivating example. An interesting learning resource from the NSDL (e.g., an
interactive simulation of a frog dissection) is demonstrated to the participants.
