THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT MODEL IN ENHANCING TEACHERS’ COMPETENCIES

Abstract

Competent teachers form the backbone of the effective teaching and learning. In Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) context, effective teacher learning can ensure that teachers' knowledge and skills are at the required standards. This study focused on the relationship between professional development and vocational teacher competency. This study identified the elements of professional development that were key predictors of teacher competence. This study was used the questionnaire with items adapted from Characteristics of Effective Professional Development to measure the professional development of teachers, and from the Performance Standards of Education Officers to measure teacher competencies. This study was a cross-sectional survey involving 173 vocational school teachers selected through the multi-level sampling in one of the states in Malaysia. The findings showed that there was no significant difference in teacher competence based on gender. However, there was a significant difference in teacher competence based on working experience. The findings also showed a significant positive correlation between professional development and teacher competence. Separate analysis of the professional development dimension showed the elements of active learning in the classroom, focus of teaching content, collective participation and coherent became predictors of teacher competence. The implications of this study show that effective professional development practices can enhance the competence of teachers in vocational colleges for their career development.
Keywords: Teacher Competence,