Optimizing Professional Learning Communities
Description
A Professional Learning Community is a group of teachers, administrators, parents and students working together to seek out best practices for the classroom, so that every student can learn. The key paradigm shift is that the focus is on learning rather than teaching. And, the common denominator with other organizations and businesses, is the importance of continuous learning for everyone! Based on the work of Rick and Becky Du Four, this development program is designed to introduce and optimize Professional Learning Communities in a school system or organization. J. Davies works with organizations at every stage of implementation of PLC’s, including:
We begin by conducting an in-depth Needs Assessment to determine the appropriate level of Professional Development required. We then design a tailored series of workshops targeted to create an effective climate and provide skills necessary to maximize the effectiveness of Professional Learning Communities at all levels.
Who Should Attend
This program is most beneficial when attended by intact Professional Learning Communities. The series of workshops will help teachers, administrators and other educational professionals learn skills, concepts and techniques that will assist them in the successful implementation of Professional Learning Communities.
Process
- Needs Assessment
- Session Planning & Development
- Workshop Delivery
- Evaluation & Follow-up
Sample Agendas
All of our development sessions are tailored to a client’s specific needs. Below are sample agendas for a series of four workshops designed to target Group Processes necessary for effective Professional Learning Communities.
Session 1 – Establishing a Climate for Change for Effective PLC’s
• Defining a Professional Learning Community
• Identifying Roles and Responsibilities
• Assessing Current Level of Teamwork
• Force Field Analysis; A Vehicle for Change
• Set Goals for Improvement
Session 2 - Group Processes &Facilitation Skills for Effective PLC’s
• Collaborative Processes for Successful Learning Communities
• Consensus Building
• Managing Group Dynamics
• Set Goals for Improvement
Session 3 - Communication Skills for Effective PLC’s
• 2-Way Communication
• Collaborative Listening
• Behavior Oriented Feedback
• Conflict Management
• Set Goals for Improvement
Session 4 - Follow-up and Assessment of Group Processes
- Review Goals
- Assess Progress
- Develop Plan for Continued Improvement
