Creating Collaborative Learning Structures for Continuous Math Improvement

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: Developing and Stretching In-Service School Leaders (Table 14)

Abstract

This paper presents findings on a new structure to support leadership development while solving persistent educational problems. It explores how Networked Improvement Communities (NICs) can foster learning, problem solving and improve in student learning. It draws from three university co-facilitated NICs for 15 assistant principals (APs) from one urban school district. During regular meetings, APs learned core improvement science principles, tools and practices, while addressing a shared problem of practice—poor student engagement in math. The research documented how the NIC-based learning developed the APs’ improvement science skills and application to improve teacher practice, and led to changes in teacher support, instruction and student engagement. Applications for district use for AP leadership development, school improvement and leadership preparation are considered.

Author

• Margaret Terry Orr, Fordham University