Rather, we need a whole new approach to professional development in order to produce long-lasting results. In conventional professional development situations, instructors have a predetermined amount of material to get through and a very short time in which to do it. Time is usually allowed for participants to share information about themselves and their experiences, but that time must be short. Otherwise, the instructor cannot get through the scheduled material. Because of time constraints, professional development is usually conducted as though all participants have about the same backgrounds and learn at the same pace and in the same way.
Teachers have widely differing backgrounds and, like their students, have different learning styles.
Some learn well in traditional lecture settings or by reading, while others require a more hands-on, physically active approach. Professional development can sometimes be inconvenient . It often involves travel and close quarters with unfamiliar people in unfamiliar surroundings. The unfamiliarity can be a distraction and can discourage free exchange of ideas. Being away from the classroom can also be a source of anxiety.