Quality Professional Development for Teachers: A Key to Lifting Student Achievement

The Education Review Office has conducted new research emphasizing the importance of high-quality professional development for teachers in boosting student achievement. According to Ruth Shinoda, Head of the ERO's Education Evaluation Centre, "Quality teaching is the single most important driver of student achievement. It affects outcomes more than other factors, including class sizes." The research found that professional development is effective when it incorporates evidence-based techniques, practical tools, knowledge building, and motivation. For instance, teachers who receive professional development that includes stepped-out teaching techniques are four times more likely to improve their practice.

Key Takeaways:

• High-quality professional development has a significant impact on student achievement, as it improves teacher practice and builds their knowledge.
• Professional development that incorporates evidence-based techniques, practical tools, and motivation leads to better outcomes for students.
• Teachers are more likely to improve their practice when professional development includes stepped-out teaching techniques, making them four times more effective.
• The recent professional development on English for primary teachers has shown tangible results, with nearly three-quarters of teachers using the techniques they learned every day, and six in ten teachers reporting an improvement in student learning.
• Half of teachers report they are not completely clear about how to use what they have learnt, a third report little improvement to their practice, and a quarter report that their professional development does not lead to much improvement in student outcomes.
• ERO's research found that teachers in the English program experienced significant benefits, including improved student outcomes and increased teacher confidence.
• The research highlights the importance of high-quality professional development for teachers, providing a clear message that it can make a significant difference in student achievement.
• ERO's recommendations emphasize the need for more effective and targeted professional development that meets the needs of teachers and improves student outcomes.
• The Education Review Office aims to support educators in providing the best possible learning opportunities for students through improved professional learning and development.

Statistics:

• 50% of teachers do not fully understand how to use the skills and knowledge they gained from professional development.
• 30% of teachers report little improvement in their teaching practice after participating in professional development.
• 25% of teachers state that their professional development does not lead to significant improvements in student outcomes.
• 75% of teachers who participated in the English for primary teachers program reported using the techniques they learned every day.
• 60% of teachers in the program reported an improvement in student learning.
• Sources:
• Education Review Office (ERO).
• Ruth Shinoda, Head of the ERO's Education Evaluation Centre.
• English for primary teachers program.