McREL Research Affirms Link Between High-Quality Teacher Professional Development And Improved Student Achievement

The Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL) found that professional development for teachers can have a positive impact on student achievement if it is sustained over time; focuses on specific content areas or instructional strategies; supports the collective learning of most, if not all, teachers in a school; aligns with school and teacher goals; and provides opportunities for teachers to practice and apply new knowledge. McREL researchers also found, however, that in general, teacher professional development does not reflect these characteristics. As a result, it has had mixed results in improving student achievement.