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This short reflection refers to the main approaches of teacher professional development and aims to highlight the importance of alternative approaches of professional development initiatives, such as communities of practice. The alteration of the way in which professional development is conceived and implemented may prove to be a provoking initiative. It is considered, however, effective and successful as it meets the growing requirements of teaching and provides several opportunities for the professional growth of teachers. Relevant research could bring to the fore prospects and restrictions that these learning environments conceal and could generate effective models and strategies for teacher professional development.