Effectiveness of Large-Scale, State-Sponsored Language and Literacy Professional Development on Early Childhood Educator Outcomes

Authors

Shayne B. Piasta, Ohio State UniversityFollow
Laura M. Justice, Ohio State UniversityFollow
Ann A. O'Connell, Ohio State UniversityFollow
Susan A. Mauck, Ohio State UniversityFollow
Melissa M. Weber-Mayrer, Ohio State UniversityFollow
Rachel E. Schachter, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Kristin S. Farley, Ohio State UniversityFollow
Caitlin F. Spear, The Ohio State University

ORCID IDs

Rachel E. Schachter

Date of this Version

2017

Citation

Published in Journal of Research on Educational Effectiveness 10:2 (2017), pp 354–378.

doi 10.1080/19345747.2016.1270378

Comments

Copyright © 2017 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. Used by permission.

Abstract

The current study investigated the effectiveness of large-scale, state-sponsored language and literacy professional development (PD) intended to improve early childhood educators’ knowledge, beliefs, and practices. PD was offered in a real-world context and delivered at scale across the state, implemented by an independent contractor. Educators (n = 535) were randomly assigned to participate in one of three types of PD: 30 hrs of language and literacy PD presented in a workshop format, 30 hrs of language and literacy PD plus monthly coaching, or PD on alternative topics (comparison). Baseline and outcome measures were collected by an independent research team to determine PD effectiveness. Growth curve analyses showed little change in educator outcomes over an 18-month period, with no differences among conditions or evidence of moderation by educator or classroom characteristics. Explanations for lack of PD impacts and the importance of evaluating educational investments are discussed.

Includes supplementary materials.