Teach Reach Inspire: Elevating Literacy Instruction

Learning about and implementing a new skill or strategy in the complex context of a classroom takes time. Joyce and Showers (1982) suggested that it would take approximately 20-30 hours to study theory, 15-20 demonstrations or more, 10-15 times to practice with colleagues or small groups or teachers, and ongoing support if the goal is to build the highest level of skill in teachers and long-term use. Most people don’t learn simply by being told what to do, so it’s important to plan for sustained professional learning that equips teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance student learning. 

Learning about and implementing a new skill or strategy in the complex context of a classroom takes time. Joyce and Showers (1982) suggested that it would take approximately 20-30 hours to study theory, 15-20 demonstrations or more, 10-15 times to practice with colleagues or small groups or teachers, and ongoing support if the goal is to build the highest level of skill in teachers and long-term use. Most people don’t learn simply by being told what to do, so it’s important to plan for sustained professional learning that equips teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance student learning.