Supercharge Your Professional Learning - by Kasia M Derbiszewska & T Nicole Tucker-Smith (Paperback)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

Professional learning initiatives in schools come and go, and the constant cycling through programs can resemble fad diets--hype and hope followed by crash and burnout.

In this timely book, professional learning providers Kasia M. Derbiszewska and T. Nicole Tucker-Smith share concrete strategies that will help you design professional development sessions that are compelling, convincing, and sustainable using the framework of Universal Design for Learning.

Learn to recognize and reduce common barriers to effective PD. In each chapter, the authors clearly address the Purpose, Preparation, Implementation, and Benefits to Learning for each aspect of professional learning, as well as UDL Tidbits that help ensure the health and longevity of the initiative.

If you are ready to take the leap toward creating healthy and sustainable professional learning, jump into the chapter that is most relevant to your needs. Get ready to consider the whole adult learner and apply practical strategies for cultivating and maintaining healthy, vibrant professional development that has a track record of success.

Review Quotes

"[The authors] weave a powerful analogy of high-quality professional learning as a refueling station for the brain. As educators, we all crave time for inspiration, growth, and reflection, and we know these cravings cannot be satisfied with 'one-size-fits-all PD' and 'sit-and-get. This book is the ultimate menu to support a transition to 'supercharged PD.' With concrete, evidence-based 'a la carte' options that would improve the design of professional learning immediately, the text also provides a vision for why we must transform adult learning environments if we want to increase the outcomes of all learners. If you are a PD provider, you need this in your toolbox." - Katie Novak, Author, Assistant Superintendent of the Groton-Dunstable School District in Massachusetts and leading expert on UDL implementation.

"With this book, you will be empowered to transform your school's professional development so that it engages educators in meaningful, productive learning opportunities. Explore dozens of resources and relatable analogies to ensure your professional development supports best practices for adult learning. This book models UDL in its design and every page is filled with examples that have a clear purpose and that benefit learning." - Allison Posey, Author and UDL Specialist

"Drawing on their passion for staff development and deep knowledge of best practices, including UDL, the authors offer a power-packed guide to professional learning that is both rewarding and fun." - Jennifer Levine, Director of Professional Learning, CAST