Horizon Issues 9. Enhanced Professional Development Return to Issues List Funding will expand dramatically so that teachers have the equivalent of 4-10 days annually of (paid) learning opportunities to acquire and develop skills to match the new learning opportunities. Much of this time will be spent in small study groups and invention groups. While this trend is hard to substantiate in January of 2000, a wave of critical reports on the lack of teacher technology usage will provoke a serious review of past practice and elevate the importance of professional development. Learning More Do a search at Electric Library and read at least 2 articles that cast light on this trend or issue. Possible search questions: Are teachers prepared or ready for technology? Will we see increased funding for teacher professional development? Visit and read through several of the following: Teacher training institutions are falling behind in the information age Will New Teachers Be Prepared To Teach In A Digital Age? Supporting New Designs for Teaching & Learning Teachers and Technology: Making the Connection Reinventing Schools: The Technology Is Now Internet Use by Teachers Teachers' Use of Technology Increases as the Internet Permeates Schools World Wide Web Virtual Library: Educational Technology Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the issues pages are those of the author, Jamie McKenzie. They are meant to stimulate thought and inquiry about issues and trends, but they do contain some speculation and projection about the future. The author cannot be held responsible if some predictions and trends do not materialize or continue, especially if readers attempt to reverse some of the more disturbing trends. Listing of articles to read should not be interpreted as endorsement of the contents, products or ideas by the author. Credits: The photographs were shot by Jamie McKenzie. Copyright Policy: Materials published in From Now On may be duplicated in hard copy format for educational, nonprofit school district and university use only and may also be sent from person to person by e-mail. All other uses, transmissions and duplications are prohibited unless permission is granted expressly.