How Do Mathematics Teachers Describe Teacher Leadership and Teacher Leaders’ Responsibilities?

• In Event: Math Coaching, Teacher Leadership, and Development of Math Teachers

Abstract

Teacher leadership is important for providing high-quality education. However, there is little consensus on what constitutes teacher leadership. We interviewed eight mathematics teachers about the characteristics of teacher leaders and what they do and compared those who participated in a teacher leadership program with those who did not. Using thematic analysis, the common characteristics were being a model, lifetime learner, experienced teacher, listener, aware of everyone’s needs, communicator, and collaborator. Teachers described assisting teachers and improving students’ learning as what teacher leaders do. Those who participated in a teacher leadership program were more engaged in their school and district professional development programs. Our results contribute to conceptualizing teacher leadership from teachers’ descriptions and provide insights into developing teacher leadership programs.

Authors

• Mahtob Aqazade, Illinois State University

• Adem Ekmekci, Rice University