“Learning together creates a community that is dedicated to sharing and discovering what works well.”1 Group intelligence is enhanced when groups are composed of diverse members who work well together (e.g., taking turns and demonstrating social sensitivity) around shared processes2. Harnessing resources—physical, monetary, and effort—around learning goals and evaluating professional learning can make accomplishing complex and challenging tasks quicker and more effective3.
In order to take full advantage of group learning, it is necessary to create a safe space in which to challenge and change internal mental models to promote growth in new ideas and practices4. “Discussing uncomfortable issues releases tensions and creates productive interactions and better ways of working”5. Working in a culture of learning where it’s safe to both share their expertise and seek guidance in a collaborative manner has power to greatly enhance both teaching and learning6.
Sources:
1: Lindstrom, P. H., & Speck, M. (2004). The principal as professional development leader. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press. (Quote: p. 8)
2, 4, 5: Garmston, R. J., & von Frank, V. (2012). Unlocking group potential to improve schools. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press. (Quote: p. 94)
3, 6: Hirsh, S., & Killion, J. (2007). The learning educator: A new era for professional learning. Oxford, Ohio: National Staff Development Council.
Joining together to learning as classroom and school communities is a powerful thing. It's also something that rarely seems to happen on accident. Think of some of the safe learning spaces that you have experienced--as a student, as a teacher, as a parent, as a formal or informal leader--what elements do you think made them safe environments to learn in? What practices or principles could you see taking from those experiences and applying to new ones in which you want to foster a similar sense of learning for all? Why?
***feel free to do your own post and/or build off of others' posts to create a discussion forum***
In order to take full advantage of group learning, it is necessary to create a safe space in which to challenge and change internal mental models to promote growth in new ideas and practices4. “Discussing uncomfortable issues releases tensions and creates productive interactions and better ways of working”5. Working in a culture of learning where it’s safe to both share their expertise and seek guidance in a collaborative manner has power to greatly enhance both teaching and learning6.
Sources:
1: Lindstrom, P. H., & Speck, M. (2004). The principal as professional development leader. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press. (Quote: p. 8)
2, 4, 5: Garmston, R. J., & von Frank, V. (2012). Unlocking group potential to improve schools. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press. (Quote: p. 94)
3, 6: Hirsh, S., & Killion, J. (2007). The learning educator: A new era for professional learning. Oxford, Ohio: National Staff Development Council.
Joining together to learning as classroom and school communities is a powerful thing. It's also something that rarely seems to happen on accident. Think of some of the safe learning spaces that you have experienced--as a student, as a teacher, as a parent, as a formal or informal leader--what elements do you think made them safe environments to learn in? What practices or principles could you see taking from those experiences and applying to new ones in which you want to foster a similar sense of learning for all? Why?
***feel free to do your own post and/or build off of others' posts to create a discussion forum***