A School of Education Annual Report Process Study Used to Advance a Professional Learning Community

• In Event: Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: The Art and Practice of Leadership in Learning Organizations

Abstract

Institutions of higher education are entering a new era, one where cost, value, and quality are integral to viability. This case study examined how a School of Education’s Annual Report Process (ARP) impacted institutional decision-making, learning, and improvement using the Professional Learning Community (PLC) model as the conceptual framework. Methods of data collection consisted of document analysis, process analysis, and semi-structured interviews. Using inductive pattern analysis, four themes emerged: a) lack of shared vision, b) disconnect between ARP and impact on decision-making, c) lack of department/programmatic impact, and d) minimal training for ARP. Findings and recommendations provided a process that enhanced the building of a learning community, while positively impacting the decision-making process. Future implications will be discussed further.

Authors

• Manny A. Aceves, Loyola Marymount University

• Maryann Krikorian, Loyola Marymount University