The impact of a sustained oral language professional learning program on Australian early years’ teachers’ knowledge, practice and beliefs: a mixed-methods exploration

Abstract

Teachers in the early years of primary school play an important role in supporting students’ oral language skills; however, there is evidence to suggest many Australian teachers are not adequately prepared to provide systematic, evidence-based instruction in oral language and early literacy. The aim of this study was to describe the observed and self-perceived changes in knowledge, practice and beliefs of teachers who participated in a sustained oral language professional learning program. A second aim was to determine whether this development was adequately accounted for by current models of professionalism and professional development. Three case studies are presented, using data taken fro..