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Edited by Dr. Lynne Schrum, George Mason University
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| formerly Journal of Research on Computing in Education |
Volume 40 Number 4 Summer 2008
Extending Content-Focused Professional Development through Online Communities of Practice
Cynthia B. Vavasseur
Nicholls State University
S. Kim MacGregor
Louisiana State University
Abstract
This mixed method case study provides insights about how the professional development of middle school teachers is facilitated through their participation in content-focused online communities of practice. A key finding from this research reveals that the online community provided teachers with enhanced opportunities to share ideas, to discuss issues, and to make new connections with colleagues as well as with their principal. In addition, teachers gained curriculum-based knowledge, developed enhanced self-efficacy with respect to implementing technology, and collaborated on the development of interdisciplinary curriculum units. (Keywords: professional development, online communities of practice, principal support, middle schools.)
 Download the full article (PDF, 113 KB)
Contributors
Cynthia B. Vavasseur is assistant professor at Nicholls State University. She also serves as adjunct faculty at Louisiana State University. Her research interests focus on teacher education and professional development in regard to the successful integration of technology. (Address: Cynthia B. Vavasseur, 18125 Judy Drive, Prairieville, LA 70769, cynthia.vavasseur@gmail.com)
S. Kim MacGregor is currently an associate professor of educational research and coordinates the doctoral program in Applied Research, Measurement and Evaluation. Her research interests focus on the assessment and evaluation of educational programs implemented in higher education and of instructional innovation within a variety of educational settings. (Address: S. Kim MacGregor, ETPP, 223 Peabody Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, smacgre@lsu.edu)
Copyright 2008, (International Society for Technology in Education). All rights reserved.
| professional development, online communities of practice, principal support, middle schools |
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