Plan for Shared Learning
The goal of this shared learning plan is to create a culture of continual learning and sustainable, supportive professional development. A professional learning community “provides a context of collegiality, which supports teachers and administrators in improving their practice through learning new curriculum and instructional strategies,” (Morrissey, 2000, p. 3). This plan is aligned with the core mission and vision of the school: to create meaningful and lasting learning experiences that promote the growth and educational attainment of all students. Moreover, the plan supports the school’s philosophy of teacher engagement, which envisions each staff member as contributing fully to the improvement of the entire school. Rather than be based on a strict hierarchy of leadership, the plan for shared learning empowers all teachers to contribute their background, wisdom, knowledge, and ideals.
To improve the capacity of staff to improve teaching and learning, this plan will include conferences, workshops, training, and formal coursework designed to enhance teacher performance and promote professional development. However, the learning model will be implemented within the context of sharing and collaboration. Instead of a “catalogue-driven model of professional development,” the teachers work together to share their knowledge, experience, and creative visions (National Staff Development Council, n.d., p. 27). The workshops, conferences, and other shared learning opportunities take place within a collegial environment. Leaders contribute knowledge to empower others and solicit input and new ideas. The professional development programs evolve with the changing needs and perspectives of teachers, students, and the community.
The plan for shared learning reflects the principles of knowledge management. Professional learning will be shared in...
References
Carroll, J. M., Rosson, M. B., Dunlap, D., & Isenhour, P. (2005). Frameworks for Sharing Teaching Practices. Educational Technology & Society, 8 (3), 162-175
Lambert, L. (2002). A framework for shared leadership. Educational Leadership 59(8): 37-40.
Morrissey, M.S. (2000). Professional learning communities: an ongoing exploration. http://www.sedl.org/pubs/change45/plc-ongoing.pdf
National Staff Development Council (n.d.). Collaborative professional learning. Chapter 2. https://learningforward.org/docs/default-source/chapter-preview/learning-school-chapter-2.pdf
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