Technology and New Directions in Professional Development: Applications of Digital Video, Peer Review, and Self-Reflection

Abstract

Pedagogical applications of technology-including digital video, course management systems, online discussion forums, and CD-ROM compilations-for development of professional skills were tested in three distinct professional graduate programs. Role-playing, peer review, and selfreflection instructional methods were technologically enhanced by creating customized interfaces for use in counseling, library science, and teacher education graduate programs. Implications for further iterations of integrating technology and professional development, potential uses in a variety of disciplines, and ways in which the process can be improved are also discussed.

Using video to analyze one's own teaching

“…Teachers in these studies also felt that viewing and discussing their videos were the most valuable components of their professional development (Borko, Jacobs, Eiteljorg & Pittman, 2008; Griswold, 2004). Video discussions helped teachers see their teaching from a new perspective, recognize aspects of their teaching that they had not previously noticed (Bryan & Recesso, 2006), and realize that others had similar struggles (Collins, Cook‐Cottone, Robinson & Sullivan, 2004; Griswold, 2004; Miller, 2009; Pailliotet, 1995; Schmidt & McCutcheon, 1994).…”

“…The reviewed studies used reflection questions, rubrics, checklists or category codes to serve as a framework to guide teachers' reflections. Most studies concluded that teachers needed a systematic set of procedures to guide their reflections (Collins et al ., 2004; Miyata, 2002). Researchers felt that providing teachers with reflection guidance enhanced the quality of their reflections (Fox, Brantley‐Dias, & Calandra, 2007) and that without reflection guidance teachers tended to focus on the technical aspects of their teaching (Calandra, Gurvitch & Lund, 2008) instead of on conceptual understanding and student thinking.…”

Refocusing the Lens: Enhancing Elementary Special Education Reading Instruction Through Video Self-Reflection

“…Self-awareness and critical reflection also have proven to be valuable tools for improvement in teaching practice (Ross & Bruce, 2007). As teachers examine and reflect on their instruction, they become more aware of the possibilities for change (Collins, Cook-Cottone, Robinson, & Sullivan, 2004).…”

Cyberbullying Prevention: The Development of Virtual Scenarios for Counselors in Middle Schools

“…In another study, Amon and Campbell (2008) used a virtual game to teach relaxation skills to children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD). Researchers also have reported success in using virtual scenarios and simulations to raise awareness of concepts, including the development of professional skills in teacher education graduate programs (Collins, Cook-Cottone, Robinson, & Sullivan, 2004), improving attitudes for decreasing teenage pregnancy (Paperny & Starn, 1989) and coping with fears such as public speaking (Slater, Pertaub, & Steed, 1999) and flying (Krijn et al, 2007).…”