National Educational Priorities:A New Challenge for Professional Development

Describes Australian teachers′ perceptions of their professional development needs if they are to be successful in implementing emerging national priorities. Also describes some of the outcomes of a nationwide research project that was conducted with representatives of professional teacher associations in May 1993. Discusses key questions such as: what are Australian teachers′ immediate needs in relation to effective implementation of emerging national priorities in school education? What are teachers′ perceptions of “best practices” in professional development?Concludes that Australia′s teachers will support the further development and implementation of national priorities provided that a range of professional needs can be met. Announcement of the $60 million National Professional Development Program (NPDP) suggests cause for optimism in this respect.