A STUDY ON THE IMPACTS OF TEACHERS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ON STUDENTS LEARNING AT SECONDARY LEVEL

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of professional development (PD) on secondary school teachers' efficacy and student learning outcomes in Lahore, focusing on demographic differences such as experience level, school type, gender, and location. Using a quantitative research methodology, data were collected from a sample of secondary school teachers through a structured questionnaire. The results indicate significant disparities in PD participation and effectiveness, with mid-career and private school teachers showing higher engagement and reported improvements. Female teachers and those in urban schools also demonstrated more significant gains in instructional practices and student test scores, respectively. The study highlights the importance of tailored PD programs, enhanced access for public and rural school teachers, and continuous evaluation mechanisms to optimize PD effectiveness. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and educators aiming to improve teaching quality and student achievement through targeted professional development initiatives.