Reach and scope for Primary Connections online professional learning and development: A sector scan and review of science and literacy initiatives

Abstract

This report was commissioned by the Australian Academy of Science to inform the enrichment of online teacher professional learning and development in the Primary Connections program. The commission requested that, within a two-month period, the following research tasks be addressed: A literature review about online professional learning in primary school science/literacy, taking account of the context of the Primary Connections program and in particular the needs of regional, rural and remote teachers and student teachers, and the readiness of participants to engage with this mode of learning. A sector scan of what models of online teacher professional learning are in use in Australia, highlighting some examples to inform Academy and Australian Government Department of Education discussions for future directions for Primary Connections Professional Learning, and outlining key ideas that may emerge from this. Throughout this report we denote “professional learning and development” (PLD) as a conception combining two elements of individual professional growth, and positive organisational change.This report was commissioned by the Australian Academy of Science to inform the enrichment of online teacher professional learning and development in the Primary Connections program. The commission requested that, within a two-month period, the following research tasks be addressed: A literature review about online professional learning in primary school science/literacy, taking account of the context of the Primary Connections program and in particular the needs of regional, rural and remote teachers and student teachers, and the readiness of participants to engage with this mode of learning. A sector scan of what models of online teacher professional learning are in use in Australia, highlighting some examples to inform Academy and Australian Government Department of Education discussions for future directions for Primary Connections Professional Learning, and outlining key ideas that may emerge from this. Throughout this report we denote “professional learning and development” (PLD) as a conception combining two elements of individual professional growth, and positive organisational change.