A collaborative mode of professional development for teachers in special schools

The aim of this project is to deliver a field-based mode of training for teachers in special schools and to set up a school cluster system for teachers to have a platform for an interactive exchange of ideas, resources, services, and expertise among different schools that mutually address the needs of children with special needs. During the training period, lectures, observation of demonstrations and cross-site visitations were held. Teachers were required to demonstrate new techniques and practiced in their own classroom settings. They would receive prompt, constructive feedback from colleagues during the discussion after the lesson observation. From 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2008, a number of four school clusters were organized. Members in a school cluster included university educators, specialist professionals of the supporting schools and teachers of participating schools. The supporting schools worked collaboratively with the Institute to provide professional development programmes for teachers of participating schools. Each school cluster consisted of six schools, including one supporting school and five participating schools. The responses from participants were very positive. They believed that this mode could enhance the application of new teaching techniques into their own classroom or school settings. Most participants agreed that the school cluster system could be an alternative mode of learning for professional development.