Implementation of Learning Innovations to Improve Teacher Competence in Professional Certificate Programs for In-Service Teachers

Abstract

Teacher Professional Education is one of the education program to improve teacher competence in getting professional teacher certificates. This study aims to implement learning innovations to improve teacher competence in teacher certification programs for in-service teachers through collaboration with local governments. The study was conducted with the involvement of 2,477 teachers who are actively teaching in schools across North Sumatera, Indonesia. Learning innovation was done through the provision of innovative teaching materials and learning scenario settings. Innovative teaching materials in the field of study and pedagogy are systematically developed to increase knowledge and are compatible with blended learning. The blended learning is set as a combination of online learning, workshops, and teaching practices to equip the teachers with new knowledge and skills. The teaching materials developed have proven to be very effective in facilitating teachers to learn actively and in the end increase their knowledge and skills as professional teachers.