Initial+Needs+Assessment

As my project evolves, I need to consider how to gather evidence to ensure that I address the underlying real need. The very first stages of this Action Research Project were based on qualitative evidence gathered from professional discussions. I also sought to supplement this data by analysing some quantitative data. I collected this data from two sources. First, all staff undertook the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PoLT) – Teacher Questionnaire. This gave me a base as to how, both individually and as a staff, we felt we were going against the 6 principles. Second, I looked at the 2009 School Level Report to establish some baseline data on professional growth. I looked at this data from two perspectives; how we rated against the state mean and what our school trendline over time is.

I have since used a staff meeting to inform and consult staff about the future direction of professional development at Flemington Primary. My presentation sought to: · establish common (but differentiated) goals for professional development; · highlight the difference between pedagogy and andragogy; · discuss Malcolm Knowles 6 characteristics of adult learners; and · create some working ideas about what our professional development model might look like

Since then I have been collaborating with the leadership team to establish what will be required for 2010, this has included such things as: timetabling to support the model, beginning to develop teacher surveys, analysing different models to use and sharing current research on this area.