Learning communities that are created with colleagues provide a supportive and stimulating environment for this type of learning to occur. Professional development consists of presenters disseminating current theory, research and practices. Professional development can consist of study groups and discussion sessions where participants read and critically discuss educational literature and research including that produced by colleagues via action research and other learning projects. Economics and convenience drive professional development. Training events address needs that are common to the greatest number of people .
Workshops occur as discrete episodes of learning.
Learning activities are relevant to individuals because learning goals and strategies are decided individually or collaboratively among colleagues. Dollars that once supported large group training may now also support professional development for individual or team approaches. Professional development becomes a continuous process where goals evolve and change fluidly over time. Participants determine, in isolation , whether or not they will implement new ideas or strategies acquired through training. Successes and struggles are a private matter.