Personnel Issues

Multi-Region Master Teacher Initiative Launched
Get on the Train or Get off the Tracks

The local programs nominate outstanding teachers for the Master Teacher Initiative (MTI) and agree to financially support their participation in all activities related to the multi-session professional development experience. The application, developed with input from local advisory boards, states that a teacher nominee for the MTI should exhibit the following characteristics:

Shows Leadership with their Colleagues
Displays a Passion to Teach
Has Self Motivation for Professional Development
Has Content Knowledge
Utilizes Content Driven Instruction
Seeks Out Resources
Displays a High Level of Professionalism
Displays the Ability to Train Others
Displays the Ability to Motivate Students to Learn
Displays Adaptability and Flexibility
Uses Technology (classroom & professional development)
Displays a Willingness to Learn

Teachers accepted into the MTI sign a participant responsibility agreement that they will participate in an initial 20-hour multi-region institute, followed by a 10-hour institute a few months later. The initial 2005 institute was held in San Antonio June 20-23, and the follow-up event is scheduled for October 26-28. Teachers agree to participate in study circles, book discussions and other post-institute follow-up activities as determined by the group and to reflect on these experiences in writing. Teachers in the institute must have access to the Internet and email to keep active between sessions and to use interactive distance learning technology. They agree to develop and complete at least one teacher action project such as an interview study with students or other teachers, observation of another classroom, or class lesson study. Participants agree to serve as a resource to their local adult education and literacy program and, if possible, present at a professional conference or to a group of colleagues.

At the June 2005 MTI in San Antonio, participants had the opportunity to engage in professional development conducted by nationally known experts in language, literacy and learning. Dr. Heide Spruck Wrigley discussed the latest research in the field concerning teaching strategies, social identity, error correction, motivation, and retention. She also shared principles of engaged teaching and effective learning. At times teachers divided into groups for focused instruction on issues related to ESOL or ABE/ASE students and classroom practices. Barbara Baird took the lead in discussing teacher action research and Heide and Barbara led discussions of project-based learning. Jim Powrie discussed how multimedia and computer technology can be used to bring projects to life.

Jim Powrie, with assistance from Stan Ashlock and Denise Guckert, led the technology component of the MTI as participants gained hands-on technology experience in using digital media as part of project-based learning. Teachers used digital cameras and PowerPoint to create “walking tours” of downtown San Antonio which were then shared with the class.

The Multi-Region Master Teacher Initiative is designed to give teachers new activities and ideas for teaching as well as a better understanding of the research and learning principles that support them. They see demonstrations of lessons and activities that can be directly used with their students, some using computer technology. Action research and teacher reflection form an integral part of the institute and are directly applicable to the Texas Adult Education Credential Model. More importantly, the participants are inducted into the community of teachers interested in ideas as well as practical classroom applications.

Several regional GREAT Centers have scheduled Master Teacher Institutes in their regions which are similar, but may have a narrower focus in regard to teaching area. Look for these opportunities on the TCALL Main Calendar of Conferences and Events.