A Quick Guide to Self-Directed Professional Learning
Self-directed professional learning can be one of the most effective ways to grow and stay informed. Taking control of your learning not only deepens your expertise but also is personalized to your context, needs, and questions. We, the Classroom Caffeine team, believe in the power of self-directed professional learning as self-directed learners ourselves. However, the question remains…
How do I start?
Here is a brief guide to help you get started.
Step 1. Identify Your Main Question, Problem of practice, or goal.
Start by considering an area where you want to grow. Yes, just one. You can begin by asking yourself:
What area or skills would make my instruction more fulfilling?
What new strategies or tools have I been curious to try but haven’t implemented yet?
What aspects of my teaching am I most confident in, and where do I feel less secure?
Perhaps you want to delve into topics like social-emotional learning, literacy strategies, or inclusive classroom practices. Choose a specific area of inquiry to stay focused and motivated.
Step 2. Curate Resources That Work for You.
Create a personalized library of resources that is easy to access. You do not have to scour the internet for every blog, podcast, research journal, and webinar related to your question. Those are excellent places to start, but choose something you know you can easily follow that works in your schedule. For example, I take my dog for a walk every morning. During that time, I listen to my podcast to get the information I need without putting in any “extra” time.
Just be sure you follow reputable education blogs or listen to podcasts that feature educators and scholars discussing innovative strategies. Also, if in-person gatherings are your thing, consider joining professional networks, like Twitter chats or local teaching groups, where you can share ideas and find inspiration.
3. Reflect and Apply
A key part of self-directed learning is reflection. After exploring a new concept, take a moment to reflect on how it applies to your classroom. Try integrating what you've learned, even on a small scale, to see what works and what might need tweaking. This could be as simple as rewording classroom directions or as complex as advocating for a new reading curriculum.
4. Stay Accountable with a Community
Learning alone can sometimes be challenging, so consider creating an accountability group with fellow teachers in the digital and/or virtual space. Share what you're working on, exchange resources, and discuss challenges, even the ideas that totally flopped.
Your learning community can offer support, fresh perspectives, and most importantly — encouragement.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
Self-directed learning is a journey. Recognize your progress, no matter how small. Every new insight or successful strategy implementation is a step forward in your professional growth. You can try and set up small rewards for yourself for trying and discussing new ideas.
By embracing self-directed professional learning, you’re setting yourself up for a fulfilling and adaptable career in teaching!
Want to get started?
Join our virtual learning community called the Pod Club! In our pod club space (like a book club, but with a podcast) you can find episodes and interact. Just search our library, listen, and comment with your questions and thoughts.
