Peer Coaching in Higher Education: Faculty Coaching Partnerships to Support a Just Renewal of Rigorous, Equitable, and Engaging Classrooms

• In Event: Faculty Development Practice

Abstract

This research project explores the processes and outcomes of a faculty peer coaching initiative in higher education. Forty-eight (48) self-selected faculty partnerships committed to a series of professional learning sessions focused on effective instructional practices and the processes of peer coaching. Alongside the professional learning sessions, partners engaged in a model of peer-coaching that included conducting peer observations with pre-and post-conferences as well as a larger community of practice that met twice a semester throughout the academic year. Themes that emerged focused on student engagement, equitable teaching practices, building faculty relationships across disciplines, faculty learning and growth over time and the vital presence of trust-building and psychological safety in peer coaching.

Authors

• Kristin Nicole Rainville, Sacred Heart University

• David G Title, Sacred Heart University

• Cynthia G. Desrochers, California State University - Northridge

• Wendy Romney, Sacred Heart University