This study explored the impact of science CPD programmes. The programmes were designed to help science teachers experiment and reflect on how they could develop and integrate new ideas they encountered into their classroom practice.
The specially designed CPD also involved teachers in collecting, analysing and reflecting on portfolios of evidence arising from their work in classrooms.
The researchers found that the CPD programmes in general and constructing the portfolios in particular provided opportunities for teacher reflection and learning. The CPD programmes were linked to marked effects on the teachers’ practice, but initially the teachers found the approach difficult to implement.
This study will help teachers with an interest in CPD and in Science to explore some of the key ingredients and processes of effective CPD, including the importance of providing strong support in the initial phases.
