STAPLE

Strategic Technology-Assisted Professional Learning Environment

Strategic Technology-Assisted Professional Learning Environment (STAPLE) is a professional learning environment that provides online interactive learning experiences, allows time for practice in the classroom, accommodates the ability to reflect on promising practices, and offers collaboration and mentoring opportunities with other professionals in Manitoba. STAPLE addresses the K-S4 Education Agenda for Student Success, Priority 4; "Develop new formats for professional learning such as teacher networks, on-line learning, mentoring or self-study."

The purpose of STAPLE was to expand the range of professional learning environments for Manitoba educators by researching, developing, and implementing integrated technology-assisted professional learning models.

Outcomes:

• Create guidelines and strategies for implementation of a professional learning model
• Develop an adaptable professional learning model
• Produce a framework for the use of technology-assisted professional learning
• Expanded range of professional learning environments for Manitoba Educators

Frequently Asked Questions

What is STAPLE?
Strategic Technology-Assisted Professional Learning Environment (STAPLE) was developed to address one of the priorities from the K-S4 Education Agenda for Student Success - Priority 4; "Develop new formats for professional development such as teacher networks, on-line learning, mentoring or self-study". The content for the STAPLE pilot was specifically for grade 5 & 7 teachers as it involves the two IMYM units Prairie Tour and Balance and Harmony. During the course, pilot teachers learned about an interdisciplinary model of teaching called //IMYM// while they were testing the professional learning model being developed.

What are the advantages of participating in an online professional learning network?
We all need to continue to develop our professional practice. Today we learn from many different sources, no longer dependent on a single source of knowledge. We also learn in many different situations and contexts. When learning is a shared occurrence each of the participants can come away with much more than we might gather on our own. Since the technology removes the barrier of distance, an online professional learning community/network may be a very effective method for teachers in small or isolated locations to connect with other educators with a common interest.

A PLN can be available to its members 24/7. It is up to the individuals that make up the PLN to determine when a set meeting time is necessary. Often the learning that goes on in a PLN takes place outside of the formal meeting times.

Pilot Project

Phase 1 occurred during the 2002-2003 school year and the content for the STAPLE pilot was the Implementation of the IMYM Model focused on grade 5 and 7 teachers.