ABSTRACT
Professional learning is widely seen to benefit students and teachers. This chapter sets the context for this book on transformational professional learning. It defines professional learning as encompassing those activities packaged as professional learning experiences for educators, such as talks, courses, and conferences, as well as other times when educators learn. It makes the case for professional learning that positively shapes teacher practices that improve student learning. It frames transformational learning as the heart of professional development efforts in schools. The introductory chapter explains the author’s perspective, the purpose of the book, the contents of the book, and the teacher quality agenda propelling the professional learning agenda for teachers and school leaders.
