14.037 - Building International Professional Learning Communities

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Oftentimes we think of discrete professional learning communities that are contained within schools or districts. However, technological advances have allowed for engagement between nations that was not possible before. International professional learning communities have appeared as places where researchers exchange ideas and develop new models of change. The ability to share has substantially changed how people interact and learn. This symposium highlights 4 international learning communities that have evolved around specific research projects. We provide exemplars of how new universals for education research are becoming standard through research that crosses national boundaries. These lessons are beneficial for education researchers working on international collaborations as well as for teachers, administrators, and researchers who are building professional learning communities of their own.

Sub Unit

• SIG-International Studies

Chair

• Katariina Salmela-Aro, Cicero Learning, University of Helsinki

Papers

• The Influence of an International Professional Development Program for the Design of Engaging Secondary Science Teaching in Finland - Jari Lavonen, University of Helsinki

• International Projects Involving Chile - Beatrice Avalos, Universidad de Chile

• Improving Students' Learning Through Creativity and Critical Thinking - Stephan Vincent-Lancrin, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

• Teaching Science Outdoors - Tali Tal, Technion Israel Institute of Technology; Irene Bayer, Michigan State University; Kara Haas, Michigan State University; Joseph S. Krajcik, Michigan State University; Katherine Gross, Michigan State University

Discussant

• Lynn W. Paine, Michigan State University