Charge
The Professional Development Committee (PDC) identifies professional development needs based on issues and developments in English language teaching as well as membership feedback and surveys. Based on its findings, the committee recommends specific programs and oversees their implementation. The committee also evaluates the effectiveness of each program and provides general oversight of TESOL's professional development programs for the board of directors.
Activities
The work of the PDC centers on managing five portfolios that represent a range of professional development opportunities for TESOL members. They include preconvention institutes, academies, online professional development and distance education, leadership development, and symposia. The committee also serves as liaison to the board on professional development task forces.
Responsibilities
Committee members must attend the annual convention and fully participate in all official meetings of the committee. There are currently three meetings, an all-day session prior to the opening of the convention, an open meeting with the membership, and a business meeting to plan the committee's activities for the coming year. Committee members are also actively involved in specific portfolios and subcommittee tasks, and communicate frequently to meet deadlines throughout the year.
Committee members advocate for TESOL's professional development programs. They also review the needs assessment, conceptual development, integration, and evaluation of all TESOL's professional development activities.
Qualifications
Committee members should be knowledgeable about a particular English language instruction program level and its associated issues, trends, workplace requirements, and demographics. Members should also have background and experience in providing in-service training programs, other kinds of professional development programs, or both.
Leadership, 2012-2013
Chair: Dawn E. McCormick
Chair-Elect: Ayanna Cooper
Past Chair: Rudmila Popovic
Board Liaison: Tim Collins
Staff Liaison: John Donaldson
For more information, please visit the Professional Development Committee page in the TESOL Community.