Empowered Foundations in Transformative Pedagogy: A New Age of Synthesis and Educator Empowerment

Learners are preparing for an uncertain future rapidly changing with vast amounts of technology and knowledge consumption; it’s imperative for educators to adapt their teaching methodologies. The traditional “sage on stage” approach no longer suffices for preparing learners for the complexities of the modern world. The call to action is clear: the necessity of a paradigm shift in educational practices, emphasizing the importance of Empowered Foundations in transformative pedagogy for educators through continuous professional development.

As noted by Sias et al. (2017), we are entering the age of synthesis, characterized by increasing diversity and interdependence. Hartman, Renguette, & Sieg (2018) further emphasize the need for learners to develop communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity skills to navigate this evolving landscape successfully. Empowered Foundations provides research, resources, and modeling for this transformative teaching and learning in professional development.

Educators often replicate the teaching methods they experienced as students, perpetuating outdated practices. However, the world has changed significantly since many educators were in school. According to a survey conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in 2020, 94% of children ages 3 to 18 had access to a computer at home, indicating a significant shift in the availability of technology for learning. By embracing a “guide on the side” approach and continuously evolving their practice, educators can foster the skills necessary for success in an ever-changing world. Empowered Foundations offers a comprehensive solution to support educators on this journey towards transformative pedagogy, backed by research and statistics indicating its efficacy in improving student outcomes.

To facilitate this shift, educators must engage in continuous professional development. The National Staff Development Council (NSDC, 2011) recommends that 25% of educators’ time should be dedicated to learning and collaboration. However, the quality of professional development is crucial. Static in-services are often ineffective, requiring a more tailored and impactful approach. Empowered Foundations is a full PD offering with additional observation days suggested and provided.

Empowered Foundations offers a solution tailored to meet the evolving needs of educators and learners. This eight-hour professional development course focuses on growth mindset, differentiated instruction, and social and emotional learning. Research by Hattie and Timperley (2007) suggests that professional development programs focusing on these areas have a significant impact on student outcomes.

Specific: The course content is tailored to address the specific needs of educators in the age of synthesis.

Measurable: Educators set measurable goals and track their progress throughout the program and after the PD.

Attainable: Strategies taught are practical and attainable within the classroom setting.

Relevant: The content aligns with current educational research and best practices.

Timely: The course is designed to fit within educators’ busy schedules, providing timely support.

Evaluated: Pre and post-observations ensure that educators effectively implement the strategies learned.

Reviewed: Ongoing support and access to resources ensure that educators continue to grow beyond the program.

In order to deliver information in the most effective way, learners must be able to communicate, collaborate, creatively and critically think, and own their knowledge acquisition. Empowering educators through high-quality professional development is essential for preparing learners for the age of synthesis. By embracing a “guide on the side” approach and continuously evolving their practice, educators can foster the skills necessary for success in an ever-changing world. Empowered Foundations offers a comprehensive solution to support educators on this journey towards transformative pedagogy, backed by research and statistics indicating its efficacy in improving student outcomes. Most importantly, educators will have access to our educators long after professional development has occurred.