For decades, professional development (PD) has been seen as the solution to every challenge in education. But ask most teachers, and you’ll hear a very different story:
"Another one-off workshop that felt disconnected from my classroom."
The PD Hamster Wheel
The reality is that most PD fails because it’s:
- One-and-done, with no follow-up support
- Generic, rather than tailored to teachers’ needs
- Focused on compliance, not actual growth
- Quickly forgotten after the day is over
It’s the hamster wheel problem: schools spend money and time, but little actually changes.
What the Data Shows
- Only 29% of teachers say PD is relevant to their classroom practice.
- Less than 40% of districts track the actual impact of PD investments.
- Billions are spent annually on programs that don’t move the needle.
The Fix: Sustainable PD
Schools that break free from the hamster wheel do three things differently:
- Build in continuity — PD isn’t an event, it’s an ongoing process.
- Personalize learning — teachers need choice and relevance.
- Measure and adjust — track outcomes, not just participation.
Where Technology Helps
Platforms like IYKYK Education are rethinking PD. With digital, adaptive modules and AI-powered coaching, schools can provide ongoing, relevant, and measurable development that sticks.
