- "Professional development is learning that leads to or emphasizes education in a specific professional career field or builds practical job applicable skills emphasizing praxis."
Continual reading and research are essential for professionals to stay updated with emerging trends and best practices within their field. It can also help professionals develop new skills and knowledge that enhance job performance.
Literature review: A critical evaluation and analysis of existing literature related to a research topic, providing insights into the research gap, trends, and key concepts.
Research methodology: The systematic approach used by researchers to explore a research question or problem, including the selection of research design, data collection methods, and analysis.
Data analysis: The process of transforming raw data into meaningful insights through statistical inference or other analytical techniques.
Quantitative research: A research method that uses numerical data and statistical analysis to infer relationships between variables, test hypotheses, and draw conclusions.
Qualitative research: A research method that focuses on understanding the meaning and experiences of individuals or groups through in-depth interviews, observations, and analysis of textual data.
Mixed methods research: A research approach that integrates both quantitative and qualitative data to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a research question.
Action research: A research approach that involves systematic inquiry designed to yield solutions to a specific problem identified in a particular context.
Ethical considerations: The principles and guidelines that govern the conduct of research, including informed consent, confidentiality, and data protection.
Research dissemination: The process of sharing research findings through publications, presentations, and other means to reach a wider audience and inform practice.
Professional development: The ongoing process of gaining knowledge, skills, and competencies to improve job performance and career advancement.
Supervisor-employee relationship: The dynamic and complex interactions between supervisors and their employees, including communication, feedback, and coaching.
Mentoring: The guidance and support provided by experienced professionals to guide and develop the career of a less experienced individual.
Reflective practice: The systematic and intentional process of exploring personal experiences and professional practice to enhance learning, self-awareness, and improvement.
Evidence-based practice: The process of incorporating relevant and reliable research evidence into decision-making and practice to improve outcomes.
Leadership: The ability to influence, guide, and inspire others towards achieving goals and objectives, including the skills of visioning, decision-making, and strategic planning.
Peer-reviewed articles: These are research articles that have been reviewed and approved by independent experts in a field. They typically share research findings or analysis of trends, theories, or issues related to the field of study.
Book-length publications: These may include textbooks, monographs, or edited volumes that provide more in-depth coverage of a topic than a single article. They could offer theoretical frameworks, models, strategies, practical tips, or case studies to help professionals enhance their knowledge and skills.
Conference proceedings: These are compilations of papers, abstracts, or presentations from academic or professional conferences, which are often published as supplements to journals or online platforms. They provide current research and practice trends, as well as networking opportunities for professionals.
Professional blog posts, newsletters, and online forums: Many professionals share their insights, reflections, and resources on blogs, social media, or online communities. These can offer practical tips, news updates, or creative ideas for improving one's professional practice.
Government reports, policy documents, and white papers: These may come from government agencies, think tanks, or research institutes that provide information and analysis regarding policy changes, regulations, or emerging issues that impact a field of study. They offer critical contextual information for professionals to understand the wider contexts of their work.
Research reports, case studies, and evaluations: These could be reports that document research projects or evaluations of programs, interventions, or policies. They offer empirical evidence or data to help professionals identify effective solutions or best practices in their field.
Professional development workshops, seminars, and courses: These are structured programs that allow professionals to learn and practice new skills, strategies, or knowledge in a formal educational setting. They could be offered in-person or online, and may be led by subject-matter experts or experienced professionals.
Scholarly journals: These are peer-reviewed publications that specialize in scholarly research within specific academic or professional fields, which typically publish original research. They offer the latest research findings, as well as critical reviews and debates about theoretical or practical issues in the field.
- "It builds practical job applicable skills emphasizing praxis in addition to the transferable skills and theoretical academic knowledge found in traditional liberal arts and pure sciences education."
- "Professional credentials such as professional certifications or academic degrees can be earned or maintained through formal coursework at institutions known as professional schools, or attending conferences and informal learning opportunities."
- "Professional education has been described as intensive and collaborative, ideally incorporating an evaluative stage."
- "There is a variety of approaches to professional development or professional education, including consultation, coaching, communities of practice, lesson study, case study, capstone project, mentoring, reflective supervision, and technical assistance."