Professional Learning

Why must teachers experience next generation learning themselves?

Next generation learning depends upon a different kind of instruction, in a different kind of learning environment, with new roles for educators. It demands a new mindset and different skills for teachers, counselors, specialists, and administrators. But formal preparation for next generation teaching and learning is nascent. Few educators enter next generation schools with prior experiences in redesigned learning environments. And traditional professional development falls short in addressing the challenge of Professional Learning.

Solving this challenge involves three elements:

1. The specific and unique competencies required of next generation educators
2. New strategies for providing professional learning opportunities
3. New structures to invest in educators and recognize their learning

Next gen professional learning is built upon the research of adult learning and mirrors the core principles of next gen learning for students: agency, self-direction, and high-quality content personalized to educators’ strengths and needs. The learning is ongoing, iterative, collaborative, culturally relevant, focused on mastering competencies through authentic experiences, and data-driven. Microcredentials, coaching, job-embedded learning, and design thinking are shaping the future of professional learning for educators.

We know that when educators are thoroughly prepared to take on their essential role in next gen learning—and when they experience authentic, continuous, and deep learning themselves—that’s when next gen learning thrives.

Through the Next Gen Professional Learning Project, NGLC brought together leading partners to understand the state of professional learning in the field today. We asked school, district and CMO, and network leaders to lend their voices so we could understand their needs and goals.

Learn with NGLC

NGLC offers several professional learning opportunities to support next gen educators to shift toward equitable next gen learning. Bring NGLC to your school, district, or community to activate your graduate portrait, Bravely advance your innovative learning designs, and develop systems and practices for transformation that last.
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