NCTE 2021

Research suggests the best forms of teacher professional development (PD) incorporate active learning and include opportunities for feedback and reflection. Effective PD is sustained over time and job-embedded, fostering a mindset of continuous growth. Communities of Practice (CoPs) encompass all of these elements and they present teachers with an opportunity to share insights and grow collaboratively. In this workshop, we explore the principles of successful CoPs and then turn to very specific ways to establish school-based, teacher-led CoPs, using tasks that are manageable for busy teachers. We start with tools for personal reflection and goal setting. Then we turn to practices colleagues can engage in with their CoPs, including tools for peer- or self-observation followed by reflection, lesson study, learning walks, swap shops, and more. We experience a number of the activities during the workshop. Learn concrete ways to establish, participate in, and sustain your growth through teacher-led, site-based CoPs!