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2008 Professional Development Institutes

Additional Professional Development Opportunities

Arts

Crewdson's "Untitled (north by northwest)": An Exploration of Narrative

For Teachers in Grades 3-12
Prerequisites: None

The institute will balance the modeling and discussion of pedagogy with an immersive experience exploring Gregory Crewdson's photograph and his unique approach to narrative. A variety of engaging and dynamic approaches will be modeled, including hands-on art-making, student-centered inquiry-based discussions, direct instruction from experts, reflective writing, and group collaboration and discussion. Authentic assessment strategies will also be modeled. Teachers of diverse backgrounds are welcome, and will be able to apply these approaches in their classrooms.

Gregory Crewdson's "Untitled (north by northwest)" creates a mysterious and suggestive scene set in downtown Pittsfield, capturing a single moment in a captivating large-scale photograph. Rather than delineating the whole story, the image invites viewers to join in the story-telling by imaging what has come before this moment and what is to come. The institute will delve into this world, rich with possibilities, and explore this innovative approach to narrative. Participants will connect with local history, dynamic educators, and unique artists for active, inquisitive, hands-on learning to develop skills and explore concepts in visual art, language arts, and social studies.

Visit: www.berkshiremuseum.org

Talented and Creative Learners

An Introduction to the Education of Advanced, Talented and Creative Learners

For K-12 teachers, administrators and related educational professionals.
Prerequisites: None

This course, which is designed for teachers at all grade levels, addresses significant aspects of the role, attitudes, perceptions, knowledge base and understandings required of an educator whose goal is to serve the needs of advanced, talented and creative learners. A holistic approach, rooted in constructivism, which takes into account students' strengths, needs, and preferred learning styles will be emphasized throughout the course. The major topics to be covered are as follows: definitions of and perceptions concerning intelligence; characteristics of this population; issues relating to identification; models of service delivery; essentials of curriculum design and pedagogy, with a particular focus on inclusive teaching strategies and differentiated instruction within the regular classroom; and factors that must be considered when implementing specific teaching strategies, methodologies and activities to address the learning needs of advanced, talented and creative learners. The roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including educators, other professionals, parents, governmental agencies, professional and parent associations, the business community and other invested individuals and groups in society in supporting, mentoring and advocating for this population of students as well as issues concerning educational equity and strategies for implementing school change will also be addressed.

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