Product-Based Professional Development as Catalyst for Change in PK-6 Settings

Successful professional development programs for teachers are necessary conditions for school success. They include those that are scientifically- and/or evidence-based, such as a product-based model. This case study examined the impact of a product-based model of professional development on K-6 students' performances on the North Carolina End-of-Grade test in reading and mathematics. The results of Chi Square Test of Independence indicate that, statistically, students' performances on the North Carolina ABC's End-of-Grade tests in reading and mathematics improved significantly after the year-long professional development. Also, pre- and post-survey data indicate that the participants' self-efficacy and their ability to integrate technology into literacy instruction improved.