Teachers' professional development level across cohort of generations in Malaysia

Abstract

The school organization consists of a multi generation teacher community which would mean professional development programs of one-size fits all should change towards fulfilling the needs of all teachers in the effort to strengthen the quality of education. This is because each generation has different ways of accepting changes. Therefore, this study aims to identify the different levels of teacher professional development across the cohort of generations such as the Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y. The quantitative study used survey method through questionnaire where the sample consisted of 300 teachers in Kelantan was selected using purposive sampling technique. Data collection method was primary data with quantitative and analysis techniques using descriptive analysis. The findings show that there was a significant difference in the level of teacher professional development across the cohort of generations. The results of this study can help school management to design a more appropriate professional development approach for all cohorts of teacher generation. This coordination is expected to enhance the professionalism of every teacher towards realizing the ministry's aspiration in upholding the quality of teaching and quality education in Malaysia.