Managing school-based professional development activities

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a model to assist school leaders in managing the professional development activities of teachers. The model illustrates the important role of principals in promoting continuing professional development (CPD), chiefly by cultivating a collaborative learning culture and formulating policy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study tested a framework based on the input of 103 CPD coordinators in Hong Kong, who participated in a quasi-experimental design questionnaire survey. Factor analysis and reliability tests were applied to verify the constructed validity and reliability of a self-developed instrument. A Structural Equation Model (SEM) was then applied to confirm the model.

Findings

The result of the SEM shows that principal support has a predictive effect on CPD policy and a collaborative learning culture, while the effectiveness of a CPD plan is predicted by collaborative culture and management strategy.

Originality/value

This study contributes theoretically to existing literature and practically to school leaders, by supplying a model for managing teacher CPD.

Citation

Cheng, E.C.K. (2017), "Managing school-based professional development activities", International Journal of Educational Management, Vol. 31 No. 4, pp. 445-454. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEM-02-2016-0042