Professional Development Overview


		Teaching Research Western Oregon University (503) 838-8838
click to close Professional Development is one of the three core components of the Bridges to Success model. Other components include Orientation Activities and Mentoring. Professional Development provides the early career special educator with both information and the opportunity to apply new knowledge in the field. Under the guidance of the mentor, the ECSPED will develop follow-up activities that take skills learned during professional development and apply them in the classroom.

What is
Professional Development?

The Professional Development component is designed to provide early educators with the knowledge and skills they need to feel competent in their new position and have the knowledge they need to function effectively. A well-designed program provides a continuum of professional development based on an assessment of teacher needs.

Why are Professional Development Activities important?

Research shows that beginning educators need the following:

system information related to special education,
emotional support,
system information related to the school,
materials,
curriculum, and
instruction (3).

Beginning educators benefit from additional professional development. Meaningful professional development activities must address the evolving needs of early career teachers during the critical phases of their new profession. Providing ongoing support and training for early career teachers during the three-year induction period is of critical importance towards the retention of special education teachers.