PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF TEACHERS IN THE MODERN EDUCATION SYSTEM
Keywords:
Teachers’ professional development, modern education system, pedagogical skills, digital literacy, innovative methods, quality of education, sustainable development.Abstract
The article analyzes the significance and main directions of teachers’ professional development in the modern education system. Teachers’ professional development encompasses the enhancement of pedagogical skills, methodological preparation, digital literacy, and socio-emotional competencies. The study emphasizes that professional development has a significant impact on improving the quality of education, student achievement, the implementation of innovative approaches, and alignment with international standards. In the Azerbaijani education system, state programs, professional development courses, and international exchange initiatives are implemented to support teachers’ professional growth; however, challenges such as regional disparities in opportunities, lack of motivation, and limited practice-oriented training persist. The article recommends the preparation of individualized professional development plans for teachers, expansion of online and hybrid training, implementation of practice-based approaches, and strengthening of international cooperation. Consequently, teachers’ professional development is recognized as one of the key conditions for ensuring quality in the modern education system and for enhancing the intellectual potential of society.
References
Avalos, B. (2011). Teacher professional development in teaching and teacher education over ten years. Teaching and Teacher Education, 27(1), 10–20.
Darling-Hammond, L., Hyler, M. E., & Gardner, M. (2017). Effective Teacher Professional Development. Palo Alto: Learning Policy Institute.
European Commission. (2013). Supporting Teacher Development for Better Learning Outcomes. Brussels: Publications Office of the European Union.
Guskey, T. R. (2002). Professional development and teacher change. Teachers and Teaching, 8(3), 381–391.
Ministry of Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan. (2020). Teacher Professional Development Policy and Strategy. Baku: Ministry of Education.
Hattie, J. (2009). Visible Learning: A Synthesis of Over 800 Meta-Analyses Relating to Achievement. London: Routledge.
OECD. (2019). Teachers and School Leaders as Lifelong Learners. Paris: OECD Publishing.