Learning the Language of Literacy Coaching

• In Event: 70.067 - Poster Session 15
  In Poster Session: 70.067-4 - Research on Literacy Issues

Abstract

In this multiyear study we are investigating how literacy specialist candidates develop coaching skills in light of their prior teaching experiences. This work is important to the field because the impact of strong, well-qualified coaches on schools is not fully understood. Little research has investigated coaching development and how these instructional leaders use language to support and encourage one another based on their personal experiences and cultures. Themes in Year 1 included hesitancy in coaching suggestions, indicating a lack of confidence in coaching persona. Themes in Year 2 shifted to reflect greater confidence and support while increasing use of clarifying questions to ensure understanding, indicating a developing coaching persona.

Authors

• Allison Ward- Parsons, George Mason University

• Susan V. Groundwater, George Mason University

• Jennifer Drake-Patrick, George Mason University