Bridging Research and Practice: Translational Research in Professional Development with the Professional Learning and Leading Collaborative

In the rapidly evolving world of education, bridging the gap between research and practice is essential for fostering meaningful and lasting improvements in teaching and learning. The Professional Learning and Leading Collaborative (PLLC) at the William and Ida Friday Institute for Educational Innovation, part of the NC State University College of Education, exemplifies this approach through translational research, turning theoretical insights into practical, actionable strategies for educators. At the core of PLLC’s work are four guiding principles: Transformative Expertise, Tailored Professional Development, Future Readiness and a Proven Record of Success. These principles are not just theoretical concepts—they are deeply rooted in research-based practices that have been shown to drive significant change in education.

Transformative Expertise: Applying Knowledge in Real-World Contexts

The effectiveness of professional development (PD) is significantly enhanced when led by knowledgeable and experienced coaches. Our expert coaches are more than just educators—they are seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. With a deep understanding of the dynamic landscape of education, our team ensures that the guidance we provide is not only grounded in theory but also proven in real-world applications. 

For example, in one North Carolina school district, PLLC experts worked directly with instructional technology facilitators to implement data-driven decision-making in classrooms. By using real-time student data, these educators were able to adjust instruction on the fly, enhancing engagement and improving learning outcomes. This demonstrates the principle of transformative expertise, as we not only bring research-based methods but support the application of them in real-world teaching environments, making the impact tangible for educators.

Tailored Professional Development: Customizing Learning for Impact

Effective PD centers on teaching strategies associated with particular curriculum areas, allowing educators to engage in learning that is directly applicable to their classrooms. The PLLC understands that each educator’s journey is unique, and so are their professional development needs. We specialize in creating customized learning experiences that align with the specific goals and challenges of the educators and institutions we work with. Whether the goal is to enhance classroom engagement or refine leadership skills, PLLC’s tailored professional development ensures that every educator receives the personalized support necessary to succeed. 

The PLLC customizes professional development to meet the specific needs of different schools and districts. For example, in rural North Carolina schools, PLLC has provided professional development focused on integrating digital tools into traditional instruction, tailored specifically to the limited resources and infrastructure of these communities. Educators were able to explore tools and methods that were directly applicable to their unique challenges, ensuring that the professional development was immediately relevant and effective in their context. This customization of learning experiences highlights PLLC’s commitment to tailoring professional development for maximum impact.

Future Ready: Leading Educational Innovation

Research underscores the importance of sustained and innovative professional development, with effective PD providing sufficient time for educators to learn, practice, implement and reflect on new strategies. PLLC is committed to ensuring that our professional development offerings are not only relevant but also forward-thinking. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest strategies and methodologies, integrating them into our PD programs to prepare educators for future challenges. By maintaining a future-ready focus, PLLC ensures that educators are equipped to meet the demands of tomorrow’s classrooms. As part of its commitment to future readiness, PLLC collaborated with districts across North Carolina to integrate innovative STEM programs, such as coding and robotics, into K-12 curricula. In one pilot program, PLLC worked with educators to develop a robotics curriculum that not only aligned with state standards but also encouraged critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students. By introducing educators to cutting-edge instructional strategies and preparing them to implement emerging technologies in the classroom, PLLC ensures that both teachers and students are equipped for the demands of a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Proven Record: Demonstrating Impact Across Education

Collaboration, active learning and regular feedback are crucial to build capacity. The PLLC’s success is evidenced by the transformative results achieved in schools and districts across North Carolina and beyond. Our commitment to research-based practices and customized support has led to significant improvements in teaching and learning. By creating opportunities for educators to share ideas, engage in authentic learning experiences and receive ongoing feedback, PLLC fosters a culture of continuous improvement that leads to lasting change in education. 

For example, in one school district, following PLLC’s professional development program, there was a significant increase in student engagement and achievement in mathematics. Teachers reported higher confidence in using differentiated instruction techniques, and test scores showed a marked improvement over the course of the school year. This evidence of impact, backed by data and feedback from educators, demonstrates PLLC’s ability to foster sustained improvement through its research-based, collaborative approach to professional learning.

Supporting Research-Based Professional Development

Research consistently highlights the key features of effective professional development, including a focus on content, active learning, collaboration, models of effective practice, coaching, feedback and sustained duration. The PLLC at the Friday Institute embodies these elements, integrating them into every aspect of our work, ensuring that our professional development offerings are not only grounded in research but also tailored to meet the unique needs of educators. By bridging the gap between research and practice, PLLC empowers educators to achieve real-world success and contribute to the ongoing evolution of education.

We are committed to translating research into practice, empowering educators at every level to succeed in an ever-changing educational landscape. By focusing on transformative expertise, tailored professional development, future readiness and a proven record of success, PLLC is shaping the future of education one educator at a time.

If you’re looking to enhance educator success through tailored, research-based professional development, the PLLC is here to help. Reach out to the Professional Learning and Leading Collaborative to learn how we can support your organization’s journey toward impactful, future-ready education solutions.