Professional Development Programs and Their Effect on Teacher Competency in Punjab’s Secondary Schools

Abstract

Competence of teachers is an important factor in the quality of education and its impact on student learning outcomes. In Punjab Pakistan, Secondary school teachers are assessed on their teaching skills, but the impact of professional development (PDPs) on teachers’ skill advancement is still unclear. This study analyzes the effect of PDPs on the professional knowledge, teaching skills, and classroom control of secondary school teachers in Punjab. A mixed-methods design was used, where quantitative data were collected from a representative sample of teachers through structured questionnaires, and qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews and classroom observations. The study focused on the impact of factors like program design, duration, content, teacher activity, and others on the improvement of skills. The study outcomes are expected to guide policymakers, educational administrators, and teacher training institutions on the most effective ways to make professional development initiatives, increase teaching effectiveness, and improve student achievement in the secondary schools of Punjab.

Keywords: Professional development programs, teacher competency, secondary education, Punjab, educational quality, teacher training.