Enriching the professional learning of early years teachers in disadvantaged contexts: The impact of quality resources and quality professional learning

Abstract

Studies indicate that very few teachers entering disadvantaged contexts feel prepared academically or professionally to teach effectively. This study focuses on the impact of a model for professional learning, the RoleM Professional Learning model (RPL), situated in a disadvantaged context over a three-year period. The participating teachers (n = 12) in this study taught in the first three years of school (Foundation to Year 2). To ascertain the effectiveness of RPL, teachers were interviewed three times a year and students' pre and posttest scores were also considered. The results indicate that quality teaching is related to the establishment of quality resources and quality professional learning. Additionally, students demonstrated significant gains between the pre and post-test scores. Furthermore, as teachers move towards exhibiting the characteristics of expert teachers they progress through five stages and it takes at least two years for this progression to occur.