Type of Culminating Activity
Graduate Student Project
Graduation Date
Spring 2026
Degree Title
Masters in Educational Leadership
Major Advisor
Michael Humphrey, Ph.D.
Abstract
Following two years of Thinking Maps professional development, educators at the secondary level have increasingly integrated them into instruction; leading to improvements in student engagement, organization and explanation of thinking. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of Thinking Maps professional development in enhancing instruction. Survey results showed that staff found the training beneficial and felt comfortable utilizing Thinking Maps. To support proficiency both the curriculum coach and teacher trainer provided weekly structured activities with video instruction that modeled implementation, reinforcing student understanding and increasing staff confidence. Thinking maps showed promising results as an instructional tool. with continued reinforcement they will further promote effective curriculum planning.
Recommended Citation
Isaacson, Tiffani, "Foundations for Change: A Year-One Analysis of Thinking Maps Professional Development in Secondary Education and Classroom Adoption" (2026). Boise State Graduate Student Projects. 8.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/interdisc_gradproj/8
Included in
Adult and Continuing Education Commons, Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Educational Methods Commons, Secondary Education and Teaching Commons
Comments
(c) 2026, the author.