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Distinguishing Features of the UNCW PDS

Helping Sustain a Comprehensive Partnership Model

There are many important features that make the WSE Professional Development System partnership unique and sustainable. Below are a few examples of specific features that have helped build an exemplar program:

Required cycle of field rotations for WSE faculty engaged in learning- centered supervision, curriculum and professional development, and/or research in PDS schools

Cohort placements for UNCW students in field experiences and internships in PDS schools

Emphasis on school system relationships acknowledging the school as the unit for analysis for school reform

Partnership application process and required orientation/training for specific roles such as partnership teacher, site coordinator, university supervisor, etc.

Focused emerging technology support for PDS schools and university faculty

Regular site seminars focusing on instructional practices and the consequences of such practices on learning
Master of School Administration (MSA) candidates placed in PDS schools to apply their training

Many PDS P-12 educators recognized as extended faculty and parallel instructors at UNCW

Support for UNCW faculty engaging in collaborative research and development efforts with PDS schools and their communities

Collaborative on-site placement of interns involving PDS principals, site coordinators and university faculty