Focus professional development on instructional practice, assessment of learning, differentiated instruction, working with high needs of schools and communities.

Department consultants are working with stakeholder organizations to determine "good practice" and "best means of access" for improving learning opportunities for educators.

4.2

Develop a professional learning section of the K-S4 Website to highlight best practices and research related to the above-mentioned professional development activities.

A reorganized Professional Learning page has been posted in the K-S4 Website.

4.3

Strategic Technology-Assisted Professional Learning Environment (STAPLE) is an online professional learning environment that will provide interactive learning experiences, allow time for practice in the classroom, accommodate the ability to reflect on promising practices, and offer collaboration and mentoring opportunities with other professionals in Manitoba. The STAPLE pilot is testing a delivery model using WebCT™ software. Grade 5 pilot teachers were online from October 2002 to March 2003 and Grade 7 pilot teachers will be online from September 2003 to May 2004. Additional STAPLE pilots, currently underway, include examples of using online professional learning in the context of a curriculum development team, the development of a support document, use of a professional learning community in a professional organization and a school division, and the pilot of a new interdisciplinary unit.

• Strategic Technology-Assisted Professional Learning Environment (STAPLE)
  

4.4

Strengthen professional development for school leaders including the review of qualifications and credentials.

The Department is supporting the work of of its partners in education now studying the training and certification qualifications of administrators.