The Florida Institute of Education is committed to enhancing the knowledge, skills, instructional practices, and resources important to educators as they work to improve the learning outcomes for children and youth, particularly for those living in low-income neighborhoods.

FIE researchers recognize that if we are to improve learning outcomes, we must also provide ongoing support and training for those who work with them. The following effective professional development correlates guide FIE professional development initiatives:

     •  Focuses on student learning and instruction,

     •  Takes place over an extended period of time,

     •  Models the use of effective instructional strategies,

     •  Provides time for practice and receiving feedback,

     •  Attends to teachers’ concerns, and

     •  Is regularly assessed with results used to improve performance.

  FIE offers a variety of training for users of the ELLM/Plus Curriculum. These training programs, designed for teachers, assistants, and their supervisors, support the successful implementation of ELLM/Plus. They include:

o ELLM/Plus Introduction, a one-day overview of the curriculum
o ELLM/Plus In-Depth, a two-day daily implementation and use of the curriculum
o ELLM/Plus Intensive, a three-day training specifically designed for and limited to 2-year
   VPK low performing providers.

FIE also offers a variety of other customized training. We offer specialized training for preschool teachers and administrators designed to support the literacy and language development of young children. Topics for teachers of preschool children include building children’s print awareness, engaging families, increasing children’s science knowledge through interactive learning, and the ways in which children’s early experiences impact brain development and learning. Topics for preschool administrators include supporting teachers and children’s learning through hands-on leadership and coaching to improve instructional practice. We also offer customized training for coaches working in classrooms with preschool teachers.

We offer specialized training which is designed to raise the aspirations of middle school students to attend college. Among the topics we include in this training for middle school teachers and administrators is how to help students build background knowledge in AP Human Geography, how to use computer-based technology to enhance learning, and how to use concept mapping to improve middle school students’ metacognitive skills.