To enhance his professional development for a reading specialist credential, what should a teacher participate in?

Participating in graduate courses is a significant way for a teacher to enhance their professional development, especially for a credential as specialized as reading specialist. Graduate courses often provide in-depth knowledge and skills that are directly applicable to reading instruction, literacy interventions, and understanding the complexities of reading development. These courses typically focus on evidence-based strategies and current research in literacy education, preparing teachers to effectively support diverse learners.

While study groups and independent research may also contribute to a teacher's knowledge and skills, graduate courses are structured educational experiences that often culminate in formal recognition, such as credits or a degree, which can be essential for obtaining specialized credentials. Additionally, graduate courses often include practical components, such as fieldwork or practicums, that allow teachers to apply what they've learned in real classroom settings, further enhancing their ability to support students in developing strong reading skills.