ABSTRACT
The wording change from “staff development” to “professional learning” emphasizes the synergy between the learner and the training; this requires the participant to take an active role in his or her continuous improvement—while focusing on the learning. The current standards were developed from the research on professional development and grounded in evidence-based practices. “Gifted education specialists advocate for the allocation of appropriate resources for the preparation and professional development of all personnel who serve individuals with exceptionalities.” Sparks and Loucks-Horsley described five delivery models in professional development: individually guided professional development, observation and assessment, involvement in a development or improvement process, training, and inquiry. In individually guided development, each teacher designs his or her learning activities. An assumption of this model is that individuals can best judge their own learning needs and are capable of self-direction in the learning process.
