Content_Outcomes

This page maintained by Todd Wright and John Titterton.

Content:
 * What are we going to teach (scope, breadth, depth)
 * How are we going to teach it (different options of delivery)
 * What are the needs / capabilities of our audience (preassess?).

Outcomes:
 * Does the training meet relevant standards (NETS-T OR NETS-A)
 * Administrative expectations (long-term planning, district planning)
 * Requirements for PDU's / CEU's / CPDU's?
 * Is refresher training required / recommended?
 * When training is completed, will the attendees be capable of being peer coaches?

Principles of Good Content / Outcomes:
 * Subject matter is interesting, useful, timely and relevant to classroom teaching.
 * Curriculum and construction needs should drive the content and technology selection.
 * Hand's on activities are better than lectures, but interactive lectures can also be very educational.
 * If the content is hand's on, sufficient time should be allotted for exploration and sharing with fellow teachers.
 * The simplest yet beneficial content organization uses introduction followed by tips and tricks and then hand's on exploration.
 * An ideal outcome is a clear understanding at a level where I can independently implement in my classroom.
 * Outcomes should be measurable, not assumed.
 * The content should have a voice and shape the techniques used to teach.
 * Work in appropriately sized groups to help generate better collaboration which leads to better outcomes.
 * Observations, case studies and research projects that require analysis can lead to reflective inquiry that allows teacher to focus on improving their teaching practice.
 * Using best practices for designing professional development activities is extremely important to improve educational practice.
 * Leadership buy-in, ongoing support and follow-up is crucial for successfull PD.
 * PD is most successful when integrated and coordinated with new technology purchase.
 * Takes into account the experience and background of the audience.
 * The best outcomes have clear, useable and flexible takeaways, like a website, blog or wiki.
 * Long term commitment serves as a reminder to incorporate best practices.
 * Give staff members the choice of which content sessions to attend.
 * Adults learn best when they are relaxed and have plenty of sleep.
 * Adults learn best when they have a comfort level with the people around them. Use an icebreaker as needed to create the proper environment.
 * Adults learn best if they have personal issues that have been addressed, such as vision, hearing or other physical issues.
 * Adults learn best when they do not have a lot of distractions, such as side discussions or announcements.