The teacher is recognised as the key variable in student learning. Whilst research has been conducted on expert teachers’ competencies, few focus on factors that shape the development of teacher expertise. This paper is situated in Singapore and describes factors that shape the development of expert teachers’ expertise. This paper adopts a collective case-study approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 Master and Principal Master Teachers across disciplines. Within- and cross-case thematic analyses were employed to examine the learning experiences, contextual, and individual factors that shaped their professional growth. Findings describe the complementary nature of formal and informal learning platforms as key in providing expert teachers with different opportunities to develop their expertise. Formal learning platforms and structures encompass multiple levels, at the school, zonal and national levels. These formal platforms emphasise the sharing of best practices, theory-practice connections, teachers’ experiences and contexts which provide diverse perspectives and insights on the development of expert teachers’ competencies. Informal learning, such as intentional reflection and professional conversations, were also highly valued professional learning experiences. Professional learning experiences seem to be productive and value-adding when teachers’ learnings are reinforced across different contexts within, across and beyond schools, involve professional communities, are supported by school culture and leadership, focus on different learner profiles and needs, as well as developing subject content expertise. Findings contribute to evidence-informed ways of designing and implementing professional learning experiences for developing teacher expertise and capacities.

Authors:
Shu-Shing Lee, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Kalaivani Ramachandran, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Monica Ong, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Alice Hu, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Thana Luxshme Thaver, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Alexius Chia, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Shu-Shing Lee is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore

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