Dissertation Proposal Announcement E.d.D. Program: Kyra E. Clemmons-Stewart “Understanding Teachers’ Perspectives on the Long-term Impacts of their Continuing Professional Development”
This retrospective case study proposal, underpinned by Kirkpatrick’s 4-Level Evaluation, emphasizes the importance of examining the long-term effects of professional development (PD) programs on teachers and their teaching practices. The primary aim is to investigate why some teachers often resist applying and integrating the new knowledge and skills acquired from PDs into their classroom routines over time.
To achieve these objectives, I will conduct a series of in-depth, semi-structured interviews and classroom observations with twelve Philadelphia high school teachers. Each teacher has participated in the same professional development programs within the Philadelphia school district, including the PAHSCI program, and they work in the same schools (Overbrook and West Philadelphia High Schools); yet, they are likely to have their own very unique experiences and understandings of professional development programs, which may influence their teaching practices (Brown et al., 2009; Desimone et al., 2000).
As such, I aim to provide a platform where participants can share their stories and insights about their continuous professional development experiences, highlighting the factors that shaped their practices over time. Using qualitative case studies, this research thoroughly examines how these educators have developed new skills and whether they have successfully integrated them into their practices. Furthermore, I will investigate how they dealt with both internal and external challenges to their practices. What processes did they use to establish effective practices based on their teaching experiences? I will also analyze notable changes in their professional and instructional approaches that resulted from their participation in various collaborative networks, learning communities, and professional development initiatives (Senge, 2013).
Ultimately, this proposal seeks to provide actionable insights for enhancing these PD programs, focusing on their long-term effects on teacher learning and performance. By prioritizing real-world applications, the results will offer sustainable strategies for improving professional development.