Researchers have cited the National Writing Project, a federally supported network based at the University of California, Berkeley, as one effective model of professional development. Here are the group’s core principals:
- Teachers are the agents of reform; universities and schools are partners for investing in that reform through professional development.
- Professional development programs provide opportunities for teachers to work together to understand the full spectrum of writing development across grades and across subject areas.
- Effective professional development programs provide frequent and ongoing opportunities for teachers to write and to examine theory, research, and practice together systematically.
- Teachers who are well informed and effective in their practice can be successful teachers of other teachers as well as partners in educational research, development, and implementation.
- A reflective and informed community of practice is in the best position to design and develop comprehensive writing programs.
Source: The National Writing Project (www.nwp.org)
