Synthesizing Continuous Professional Development and Lifelong Learning: Critical Perspectives on Contemporary Teaching Standards

The process of learning and development that engages the professionals into a learning process for enhancing their skills and knowledge, leading to their efficiency and effectiveness in their performance refers to the Continuous Professional Development (CPD). The professional development helps the professionals stay abreast of the latest trends of the field of education, learning strategies, technological advancements. Lifelong Learning may involve networking, collaborations, participation in the programmes involving the exchange of ideas, sharing experiences, participation in communities to connect with peers, learning new skills. This study explores the experiences of in-service teachers related to their involvement in professional development and lifelong learning programmes and activities. The present study employed a thematic analysis method. The themes emerged include-perceived need for professional development and lifelong learning for teachers, perceived challenges in undertaking professional development and lifelong learning, perceived benefits of professional development and lifelong learning for teachers. The present study concludes with the suggestions and recommendations that would provide better insights into the need, challenges and benefits of professional development and lifelong learning for teachers.