These are methods and techniques you can use to help you to achieve your goals. The tools you select will depend on your own preferred way of learning as well as the developmental area you want to explore. For more information on particular tools, follow the links.
Tools
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What is it?
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Classroom action
research |
A discovery process where teachers explore aspects of
classroom teaching or learning, solve problems or ask questions about
everyday work. It can be done alone or
with a colleague or group of colleagues.
The aim is to improve or enhance your teaching and/or your students’
learning.
1 Gather
information
2 Discuss, analyze,
reflect
3 Implement changes
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Learning diary |
A place where you write down, reflect on and review what
happens during your classroom practice.
It can help you to explore your experiences, identify problems/issues,
set goals and plan.
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Peer observation |
Watch colleagues teach.
The focus can be on a selected aspect of teaching or on a particular
type of lesson, a problem, an approach etc.
Invite a colleague to your class and ask them to observe and give
feedback on an area you are interested in developing or experimenting with.
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Team teaching |
Arrange to teach classes with a colleague so that you can
reflect on and explore issues together and decide what changes to implement.
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Learner feedback |
Engage learners - discuss teaching and learning with
them. Design questionnaires asking for
feedback on your lessons. Ask for
their suggestions on what could be included/improved/changed.
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TEFL publications, periodicals, websites. See resources.
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Buddy |
Participate in co-operative development. Share experiences, problems, development
with a colleague.
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Development plan
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A document which sets out your goals, how you will achieve
them, how you will review them, and how much time it will take.
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Seek advice and guidance from a more experienced
colleague. Invite them to observe your
lessons and give you feedback.
Become a mentor yourself and keep a diary reflecting on
your experiences.
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Case study |
Do some research with one of your learners, or a group of
your learners. Investigate their
learning experiences to find out how to help them to learn better.
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