Continuous school improvement depends on high-quality professional
learning that focuses on research-based strategies. Professional
learning is the primary means that schools and systems utilize to
strengthen the development and performance of educators at all levels in
order to improve student learning and achievement. In recent years, there has been growing recognition that teachers are the most important factor in student achievement (Carey, 2004; Haycock, 1998). The following is a list of the most influential methods of teaching that impact student achievement (Hattie, 2003).
Influence Effect Size Source of Influence
Feedback 1.13 Teacher
Students’ prior cognitive ability 1.04 Student
Instructional quality 1.00 Teacher
Direct instruction .82 Teacher
Remediation/feedback .65 Teacher
Students' disposition to learn .61 Student
Class environment .56 Teacher
Challenge of Goals .52 Teacher
Peer tutoring .50 Teacher
Mastery learning .50 Teacher
Parent involvement .46 Home
Homework .43 ` Teacher
Teacher Style .42 Teacher
Questioning .41 Teacher
This year our focus for professional development has been on centered on creating an environment of respect and rapport, using questioning and discussion techniques, and engaging students in learning. Our Administrators have been conducting observations and walkthroughs specifically focusing their coaching and feedback on Domains 2a, 3b, and 3c.
In the future we will begin exploring 21st Century learning and the use of technology to enhance teaching and learning.
