Author: Colleen McLaughlin

DOI: 10.62670/2308-7668.2025.53.3.005

Source: Issue: vol. 53 No. 3:13 October 2025

Publisher: PE "Center of Excellence"

Document type: Research article

Abstract

Effective teacher education and professional development are vital to improving both teacher motivation and student learning. Drawing on extensive international research, this article synthesises key findings on what makes teacher professional development impactful. Characteristics of effective continuing professional development include active, collaborative, sustained learning tied to classroom practice and student outcomes. The article also explores the challenges of implementation and identifies system-level enablers for success. These insights informed the design of the NIS/SHARE programme in Kazakhstan, a three-year initiative integrating Action Research, mentoring, and collaboration across urban and rural schools. Early outcomes suggest significant gains in teacher learning and school improvement through researchinformed, context-sensitive approaches.

Key words: teacher education, continuing professional development (CPD), NIS/SHARE programme

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