‘Science Without Walls’ and ‘Teaching Challenging Topics’: two programmes of continuing professional development using online environments

Online environments have the potential to transform traditional approaches to continuing professional development (CPD). This article describes two CPD programmes for science teachers that used online environments as platforms for their delivery. Evaluations showed the impact of the programmes on teachers in three areas: subject and pedagogical knowledge; engagement with other teachers, through online meetings; and the development of their understanding of online CPD itself. Lessons learned by the facilitators included the importance of structured support when providing online CPD.