(S5,E2) Teacher and School Development w/Becky Allen and Sam Sims
Sep 10, 2022
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Becky Allen, an expert in teacher and school development, teams up with Sam Sims, a key voice in teacher retention. They discuss fascinating concepts like a hypothetical machine designed to perfect education research. The importance of early education, particularly in year three, is highlighted, alongside the challenges of aligning curriculum standards. They also delve into the need for personalized professional development, emphasizing autonomy and innovative learning methods to foster better educational outcomes.
The podcast highlights the critical role of effective teaching in early education, particularly around age seven, for foundational skill development.
Effective teacher professional development is essential for retention, emphasizing long-term support and personalized feedback within a collaborative environment.
Utilizing data-driven approaches in education helps tailor teaching practices and understand varied educational experiences across different contexts.
Deep dives
The Importance of Early Education
The discussion emphasizes that the early years of education, particularly around the age of seven, are crucial for students to develop foundational skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic. It’s suggested that this is when children are developmentally ready to engage with more structured learning. Having strong teachers in these pivotal years is essential because if the foundation is not solid, it makes subsequent grades more challenging. The hosts agree that ensuring effective teaching in these early stages is vital to prevent later difficulties in education.
Teacher Development and Retention Strategies
Effective teacher professional development is highlighted as essential for retaining quality teachers in the education system. Long-term, continuous development that integrates feedback and collaborative practices fosters an environment where teachers feel supported and motivated to improve. The conversation points to the challenges around implementing effective coaching and training due to budget constraints and the need for a more systematic approach. The development framework suggests that understanding individual teacher needs and supporting peer relationships can significantly benefit retention.
The Role of Evidence in Educational Practices
Utilizing a data-driven approach to understand various aspects of teaching is promoted as a means to improve the educational landscape. The conversation underscores that real-world evidence helps educators make informed decisions and challenge assumptions regarding instructional practices. Notably, findings from TeacherTap suggest that educational experiences often differ greatly from one context to another, creating a need for tailored approaches. Researchers stress the importance of large sample studies to make sense of teacher experiences and educational outcomes.
Curriculum Alignment and Its Challenges
The need for alignment within the curriculum, particularly in subjects like mathematics and phonics, is discussed as a way to enhance consistency and effectiveness across schools. By developing a common approach, it becomes easier for teachers to transfer knowledge and practices across schools, fostering a shared understanding among educators. The hosts recognize that while alignment can yield some benefits, it may also encounter resistance due to varying local priorities and teaching styles. They argue for a balance between prescriptive guidelines and the flexibility needed for teachers to connect with their students effectively.
Future Directions for Professional Development
Looking ahead, the future of professional development in education is expected to maintain a blend of online training and personalized in-person engagement. While technology has expanded access, the importance of tailored, contextual support remains paramount to meet diverse teacher needs. The discussion suggests that future initiatives should focus on creating mechanisms that facilitate learning rather than one-size-fits-all solutions. Collaborative, evidence-based strategies that allow for teacher input and innovation are seen as critical for meaningful professional growth in the teaching workforce.
Episode 89: This week I am delighted to share with you an episode featuring two of the greatest minds in education, Becky Allen and Sam Sims. During our chat we discuss teacher and school development, teacher retention, a hypothetical machine capable of creating providing the perfect conditions for education research and much, much more. If you enjoy this episode, and I know you will, then please leave a review wherever you get your podcast fix from. Whether you're new to the profession or an experienced senior leader, you won't want to miss this one...
