Teachers are learners too : perceptions of primary school teachers about professional development

Abstract

This study explores the concept of why teachers are learners too. Due to the constant development in education, it is imperative that teachers see themselves as learners and keep updated with the latest trends in education. It is significant to acknowledge that teachers develop professionally throughout the three phases of teaching, beginning with the pre-service phase, which is followed by the induction and continuous professional development phases. Using qualitative methodology, 22 interviews were carried out with primary school teachers to find out their opinions about professional development. Maltese primary school teachers all believed that teaching is a never-ending learning process and most of them revealed that they would follow non-compulsory courses if they are of interest and beneficial to them. However, this study revealed several shortcomings about the professional development that primary school teachers are receiving such as irrelevant sessions and not being forewarned when sessions are going to be held. The results of this study are relevant for CPD trainers or training providers in their endeavours to make CPD more relevant to the daily needs of school teachers, especially if we believe that CPD is pivotal in education and teachers regarded as change agents within the education system.