A narrative literature review was conducted to identify the design features of effective short-term face-to-face professional development (PD) events. The 23 reviewed studies described PD with durations of 30 hours or less and involved participants in education or human service-related professions. Design features associated with positive impacts…

In this "FastFacts," a state's Department of Education requests information from the Center on Enhancing Early Learning Outcomes (CEELO) on how the research defines skills in social-emotional development, approaches to learning, and executive function, to inform planned revisions to the early childhood indicators of progress for children…

A literature review was conducted on the subject of dialogue. The review examined these topics: how professionals learn and come to reflect critically upon their practice through talk; the barriers that are embodied in prevalent communicative structures and dominant discourses that impede reflective learning through talk; and how these barriers…

Discusses the concept of reflective practice developed by Donald Schon in 1983. Presents the questions explored in the five articles contained in this issue. Introduces each article and discusses the topics and recommendations provided by each article. (JS)

Suggests that lifelong learning will depend on the development of cognitive skills, but that such skills can be elusive and cannot in general be picked up in specialized courses or workshops. Supports this position by literature references followed by further suggestions for a course of action for the development of language facility through close…

Illustrates the use of various means for facilitating and sustaining reflection at different levels and preparatory stages of professional practice. The following means are discussed: (1) writing; (2) journals; (3) case records; (4) contrived situations; (5) instrument feedback; (6) electronic feedback; (7) metaphor; (8) platforms; and (9)…