Professional Development created by Teachers for Teachers
Professional development starts with establishing a clear understanding of how a product works including its key features. In essence this is the product training component of the process.
Our approach is to then take the next step and help educators understand the various applications and pedagogical benefits of using the technology in the classroom. This provides sustainable support to teachers as they begin integrating the technology into their lesson plans. PD created by teachers for teachers.
"Advanced Education is the Leading provider of SMART Board Professional Development for Teachers in Canada."
Having a sophisticated piece of technology, does not guarantee effective use. Time and time again, research has proven that technology implementations with minimal or no emphasis on ongoing professional development (PD) produce lower outcomes than those that do.
"Schools that take a systematic and planned approach to using technology to support learning achieve better outcomes with technology than other schools."
(Becta - Evidence on the impact of technology on learning and educational outcomes – July 2009 Whitepaper)
Study quantifies the impact of interactive whiteboards on student achievement
A report by the Education and Social Research Institute at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK, a highly ranked research facility, proves that increasing students’ exposure to interactive whiteboards through curriculum integration significantly and positively impacts student achievement, especially in math and science.
The report, “Evaluation of the Primary Schools Whiteboard Expansion Project,” demonstrates that the more exposure students had to interactive whiteboards, the greater the impact on learning outcomes. Below is a summary chart of the report:
| Area | Students Group | Result |
| Mathematics1 | High attaining females | 4.75 months' progress |
| Mathematics2 | Average and high-attaining male and female | 2.5 to 5 months' progress |
| Science | All groups | Up to 7.5 months' additional progress (low attaining males) |
| Writing | Males with low attainment | 2.5 months' additional progress |
| Science | All females, average and high attaining males | Progress with more exposure to Interactive Whiteboards |
| English | Average and high-attaining male and female | Progress with more exposure to Interactive Whiteboards |
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Data extracted from Becta Research Report "Evaluation of the Primary Schools Whiteboard Expansion Project", written by the Education and Social Research Institute at Manchester Metropolitan University, UK |
Key Pedagogical Benefits for Professional Development
As an Administrator, this is a key issue.
Have you taken the next step - is your team thinking beyond the acquisition of the product?
- How will your organization use this technology?
- What are the best "in the classroom" methods & strategies, for subject content?
- Why should we stay away from keeping with traditional methods in class?
Our Professional Development Session are designed by teachers for teachers
The philosophy and classroom dynamics of SMART technologies such as SMART board require new ways to manage & engage classrooms. Our Education Consultants being former teachers themselves; make it their job to instruct your teachers on updated trends and methodologies, as well as technical training.
Advanced Education helps educators understand the pedagogical benefits of using classroom technology, such as SMART Boards. We do this by way of providing three levels of PD over an agreed period of time – Fundamentals, Intermediate and Advanced. We provide teachers with the support they need as they start integrating technology into their lessons.
"Happy engaged students mean satisfied teachers & lower turnover."
On a similar note there are other ancillary benefits to taking the next step. Not only is it proven that schools achieve better learning outcomes as noted above but many districts have also proven there is a direct correlation to other variables such as increased student enrollment, improved teacher recruitment as well as teacher retention.
Check the Educators Website for the complete list of courses we offer or go to the calendar to see our next scheduled PD sessions.
Custom PD available –
e-mail SMARTPD@advanced-inc.com with your request. Can’t come to us? We’ll come to you:
e-mail SMARTPD@advanced-inc.com to book your PD.
