In the context of professional development, what is considered the best practice?

The best practice in professional development is to have a few trained teachers model instructional strategies for their colleagues. This approach leverages peer influence and experience, allowing teachers to observe and engage with effective methods in a realistic setting. Modeling by trained educators fosters collaboration, encourages a culture of continuous learning, and allows for immediate feedback among peers, which enhances the learning experience.

In contrast, one-time training for all staff often lacks follow-up and the sustained support needed for lasting impact. It can lead to a superficial understanding of new practices without practical application. Standardized test preparation events tend to focus narrowly on test scores rather than comprehensive teaching practices, which may neglect deeper learning and professional growth. Lastly, using only online courses without hands-on experience limits opportunities for collaborative learning and skill application, making it less effective for real-world classroom situations.