"Tight" and "Loose" Structures Within Communities of Practice in Action: An Evaluation of a School-Wide Community of Practice Pilot Program

• In Event: 81.032 - MTCC Roundtable Session 37
  In Roundtable Session: 81.032-12 - Professional Development, Educational Entrepreneurs, and Equity

Abstract

Teacher learning focused on collaboration to improve student outcomes often relies of various forms of student data. Yet, it is unclear how data is being used in those collaborative practices. This embedded mixed methods study explores how 11 pilot schools in a southern state implement a consultant-driven school improvement model focused on establishing school-wide communities of practice. Despite reservations from staff, pilot teachers found new ways to collaborate and start to build trust, efficacy and shared responsibility for student outcomes. This exploration of school-wide communities of practice provides deeper insight into the interaction of key aspects of data use that can create changes to practice.

Authors

• Kathryn Elizabeth Torres, Education Northwest

• Caitlin Scott, Learning Policy Institute