Conducting a needs assessment that identifies gaps in abilities or knowledge can improve professional development planning. To complete the continuous improvement cycle, both process and impact evaluations can help teachers incorporate lessons from their experiences into subsequent professional development activities. The plan is based upon a needs assessment from 284 participants in 18 focus groups across the state. Evaluation of each of these programs is conducted to ensure that they meet the needs of participants. Helping teachers acquire worksite experiences.
Teachers benefit in a number of ways from experiences in the workplace.
Most teacher internships occur in a business or career area that is related to the teacher's area of instruction. From this experience, teachers can deepen their subject area knowledge through experience-based learning, and develop applications for use in the classroom. Teachers can also help advise students about the skills and knowledge necessary in that career. The internships provide teachers with one-day experiences in the workplace, while the employers pay the cost of hiring a substitute teacher. Teachers are exposed to all aspects of the industry, and are able to gain two graduate credits upon completion of the program.