Continuous Teacher Professional Development in a Time of Digitalization and Global Health Crisis

Abstract

Teachers today should think of novel ways to use innovative educational advancements and create new ways of using digital initiatives such as artificial intelligence, massive open online courses, sophisticated learning management systems, and open educational resources to deliver meaningful learning experiences. On top of the pressures triggered by technological developments, worldwide crises have forced educators to reevaluate the techno-pedagogical skills they must master. Therefore, it is even more important than ever for teachers to receive ongoing and sustained professional development. This chapter, therefore, concentrates on the competencies teachers are required to develop in the digital age in the light of shifting societal and technological paradigms as well as worldwide crises with a specific focus on foreign/second language learning and teaching. The chapter also maps the core elements for effective teacher professional development and explores the role and potential of MOOCs as scalable means for sustainable and continuous teacher professional development.