No matter where you are in your teaching career, you will probably agree that teaching is a very dynamic profession. Every year there is a new development in how students learn and the best teaching techniques to meet the students’ needs, and as a teacher, you have to keep up. However, being aware of developments in pedagogy can be tricky if you are inundated with classroom work. Taking time outside of the classroom to explore the opportunities available for professional development as teachers, you will soon learn a wealth of things to choose from. This blog will give a run-down of a couple of ways to nourish your practice as a teacher and develop professionally.
- Enroll in A Professional Coaching Program
Many programs are designed for teachers to develop their skills to keep up with the very dynamic teaching world. The programs vary in style and teaching methods, but more often than not, they are based on professional development to learn new skills. This development helps with teaching retention as a teacher can envision a future career as they embark on developmental programs. If you think you want to earn a teaching certificate to help advance your career as a teacher, it is worth exploring your options to see what programs fit your needs.
- Attend Conferences and Workshops
Teaching conferences and workshops are great spaces to keep up with the latest developments in pedagogical theory. In addition, you will find that there is a plethora of exciting talks, conferences, and fellowships to attend outside of your institution. Many will be low-cost, and some will even be free for teachers to develop and learn new skills within the industry. Furthermore, many fellowships will offer growing teachers funds to take back to their institutions to improve their education level.
In this environment, you will be surrounded by like-minded individuals, which can be constructive and get to know other teachers.
- Keep Up With the Literature
Staying up to date with the latest literature on your subjects and teaching practices can be extremely valuable to your learning and development. Keeping abreast of the most current literature and thoughts on teaching is the best way to develop your approach and stay aware of any developments. Journals and websites are a great place to start, and you will slowly mine deeper once you start.
- Take Part in Online Groups
Exploring online groups is a great way to see what is current within the teaching world. It is also the best way to find like-minded souls doing similar things. In forums and chatrooms, you can find great discussions about the latest thoughts on teaching, as well as a great support system. So, if you are looking for comrades in education, this is the sort of space to do it.
- Reflect on Your Practices
Finally, being self-reflexive on your teaching practices is a very beneficial way to develop. Without scrutinizing your methods, you will not be able to see where there is room to grow.
