This study conducted literature review to examine the definitions and theories of and the influential factors for teachers’ professional development, serving as the theoretical basis for preschool teacher’s professional development. The research result revealed a lack of empirical studies on this topic in Taiwan. Previously, preschool teachers’ professional development was hindered by the dominating leadership of preschool directors and the insufficient communication regarding teacher profession. Additionally, when choosing a preschool, parents tended to put the reputation of preschools, instead of teachers’ profession, as the first priority of consideration. However, after the announcement of Early Childhood Education and Care Act, preschool teachers’ professional development obtained a specific legal basis. Moreover, some studies have shown that preschool teachers’ professional development has shifted its focus from individual teachers to teachers as an organizational group. Therefore, this study concluded that preschool teachers’ professional development in Taiwan has been toward a new direction.
Accordingly, four recommendations were suggested as follows:
I. Preschools should emphasize team-oriented professional development of preschool teachers.
II. Education authorities should integrate the content of preschool teachers’ professional development.
III. Education authorities should enhance preschool teachers’ belief in professional development.
IV. Education authorities should formulate feasible schemes to facilitate preschool teachers’ professional development.