CPD refers to an ongoing process where teachers engage in learning
opportunities to enhance their professional knowledge ,skills,
and abilities. Continuous Professional
Development helps teachers stay updated with the latest trends, technologies and best practices in
teaching . It is not a one time event or a checkbox to be ticked of; it is a continuous process that practitioners should effectively engage in throughout their careers. Furthermore, it is a proactive approach to staying relevant and competitive in today’s fast-paced and ever evolving job market.The CPD framework in Zimbabwe aims
to support teacher development,
improve pupils’ outcomes and ensures that every learner in receives a high – quality education, delivered in a positive and inclusive environment. In summary, CPD’s objectives are to:
• improve teachers’ pedagogical skills and knowledge in general and to master subject specific knowledge and expertise to develop and follow their professional career paths.
. support teachers in delivering the Heritage- based curriculum effectively using the Continuous Professional cycle , approaches and resources provided in the school
. build stronger collaborative school-based learning communities to learn and develop together, creating a supportive school environment where teachers can share ideas, successes, challenges and innovative teaching approaches through Cluster sessions facilitated by CPD coordinators and school- based facilitators.
. engage in self-evaluation and reflection for professional growth; evaluating their knowledge and teaching skills, including instruction, questioning techniques, feedback and assessment for / of learning, helps teachers to become more aware and confident about how to improve those skills and take more control of their professional growth.
. Improve pupils’ learning outcomes
Clearly, improving learner outcomes is the most important objective of CPD. When teachers improve their teaching skills, approaches and subject knowledge to deliver quality lessons, learners become more engaged and actively involved in making progress in respect of their learning.
The CPD Cycle
The Continuing Professional Development ( CPD) Cycle is a structured process which helps practitioners maintain and enhance their skills throughout their careers. It is a continuous cycle that ensures learning is purposeful, reflective and aligned with career growth. I present the CPD Cycle based on various sources.
Stage 1 : Needs Analysis
For the assessment of teachers’ CPD needs, it is critical to identify and have a common understanding of the competences required by teachers to deliver more effectively.
At school level, teachers can use the CPD school progress form criteria to self evaluate and understand their CPD needs more clearly
School heads can use the internal lesson supervision data to identify gaps which need to be addressed through staff development sessions.
Inspection findings at a local level can be used to inform the school based CPD plans.
Stage 2
At this stage, a school sets SMART( Specific, Measurable, Achievable,Relevant and Time framed ) objectives for professional development. The CPD coordinators, TICs and School heads are required to choose relevant learning activities such as formal education, workshops, conferences or self directed research and proceed to develop a school CPD Plan. Care should be taken to review both the individual and School CPD Plan.
Stage 3
This is normally referred to as the action stage where staff participate in planned learning activities and engage fully in the learning process and, subsequently, apply new knowledge and skills.
Stage 4
At this stage, the school documents CPD activities, including but not limited to notes, reflections and certificates.
Stage 5
This is normally the reflection stage where outcomes of the learning activities are evaluated. In addition, the impact of the new knowledge and skills on performance and career goals are assessed.
Stage 6
Here assessment of the effectiveness of learning activities is done. The school focuses on whether the learning objectives were met to inform further action.
Stage 7
This is the stage where new knowledge and skills are applied in real world scenarios. Teachers and school heads can share experiences with others to reinforce understanding and promote personal development.
The animal called CPD
Continuing Professional Development ( CPD) entails a range of activities including but not limited to:
(a). Workshops and training sessions
Teachers need hands-on , interactive training on specific topics as per School CPD plan
(b). Conferences and seminars
These offer opportunities for teachers to learn from experts and network
(c). Online courses and webinars
Online learning platforms and webinars offer flexible, self paced learning opportunities for teachers
(d). Peer mentoring and coaching
Support from experienced colleagues will increase teachers’ confidence and upskilling .
(e). Action research and reflection
Teachers reflect on their practice and identify areas for improvement .
How CPD contributes to future-proofing of careers
Apart from making staff stay up to date with current trends and advancements, CPD is about future-proofing one’s career. Staff are therefore required to foster a growth mindset, a mind that is open to change and adaptable to new challenges. CPD helps teachers to build a diverse and transferable skills set. In addition, CPD also contributes to future proofing careers by expanding professional networking and increases job satisfaction and fulfillment.
