Components of Good Professional Development Michelle Norman provides eight components of effective professional development programs as they relate to technology. 2 Notice that while these components target educational technology programs, they could just as easily describe effective professional development in an area that does not require integrating technology. Involve all stakeholders and create a shared vision. Set relevant and realistic goals. Develop a strategic plan and budget. Assess and capitalize on all resources. (Consider people a primary resource.) Link professional development to teacher needs and learning objectives. Model best practices. Provide teachers with time, incentives, and ongoing support. Establish a system for periodic review, assessment, and adjustment. Did You Know? The National Awards Program for Model Professional Development was established in 1995 and is designed to recognize public and private schools and districts that engage their staffs in high-quality professional development. Lessons learned from this program have been gathered and collected in a free publication designed to guide the professional development planning and implementation process. The publication is available online in a variety of formats. Professional Development: Learning from the Best. A Toolkit for Schools and Districts Based on the National Awards Program for Model Professional Development