Conceptualization of Teacher Professional Development (TPD) in Kenya
Introduction
In line with global best practices, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) recognizes the critical role of ongoing professional development in enhancing teacher competence and elevating the quality of education in Kenya. This document outlines the framework for a structured and coordinated TPD program, anchored in the Kenya Professional Teaching Standards (KePTS).
Kenya Professional Teaching Standards (KePTS)
The KePTS provides a comprehensive set of standards that define the knowledge, skills, and dispositions expected of Kenyan teachers. The seven KePTS standards are:
- Professionalism: Teachers demonstrate ethical conduct, lifelong learning, and commitment to the teaching profession.
- Pedagogical Content Knowledge: Teachers possess a deep understanding of subject matter and effective teaching methodologies.
- Assessment and Reporting: Teachers employ a variety of assessment strategies to inform instruction and provide meaningful feedback.
- Inclusive Education: Teachers create inclusive learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of all learners.
- School Health and Safety: Teachers promote a safe and healthy school environment.
- Financial Literacy: Teachers integrate financial literacy concepts into their teaching.
- Instructional Leadership: Teachers demonstrate leadership skills to improve teaching and learning.
Design and Structure of TPD
The TPD program is a six-level, sequential framework that aligns with the competency levels of teachers. Each level corresponds to a specific TPD module, which is structured into five chapters covering all seven KePTS standards.
TPD Delivery and Participation
- Service Providers: Accredited TPD service providers will deliver the modules on behalf of the TSC.
- Teacher Participation: Teachers are required to participate in face-to-face TPD sessions during school holidays and online learning activities during other breaks.
TPD Competence Levels
- Knowledge Level: Basic understanding of the standards.
- Application Level: Application of knowledge to teaching practices.
- Mastery Level: Demonstrated proficiency in the standards.
- Mentorship and Coaching: Ability to mentor and coach other teachers.
- Instructional Leadership: Leadership skills to improve school-level instruction.
- Mastery in Instructional Leadership: Advanced level of instructional leadership.
Assessment of TPD
TPD activities will be evaluated through a variety of authentic assessments, including:
- Reflective journals
- Participant-led final synthesis
- Individual professional portfolio development and presentation
Incentives for TPD
- TPD Points: Successful completion of TPD modules will earn teachers points.
- Teaching Certificate Renewal: Teachers must complete the required TPD modules to renew their teaching certificates.
Accreditation of TPD Service Providers
TPD service providers must be accredited by the TSC to offer TPD programs that align with the KePTS. Accredited providers will be categorized as follows:
- Category 1: Government institutions mandated to capacity teachers.
- Category 2: Non-governmental organizations in partnership with the TSC.
- Category 3: Organizations selected through a competitive tendering process.
Funding of TPD Programs
- Direct Costs: Individual teachers will pay a capacity-building fee to service providers.
- Indirect Costs: The TSC will cover indirect costs, such as monitoring and evaluation.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
The TSC will continuously monitor and evaluate the TPD program to ensure quality, provide professional support, and gather feedback on training programs.