Leading a Learning Community
I have had a couple of opportunities to lead a Community of Practice within Rockyview Schools. I have developed and implemented a Community of Practice for Beginning Teachers for the 2011-2012 school year. In conjunction with the face-to-face time, I created a website that is based with permission, on Robert Marzano's Observation Protocol. As a group we have been exploring each of the essential questions Marzano proposes and how each of these ideas are embedded in our classroom practice. The website offers information that is constantly evolving as our understandings also advance. It also offers a space where discussions can occur as new issues or questions emerge. The link to the website is www.beginningteachers.net or you can click on the picture above.
Also, as the Social Studies program of studies was being implemented, the Social Studies teachers in high schools met and collaborated on developing lessons and assessments that not only reflected the new curriculum but also embedding 21st century skills into the program. Along with Mili Rowse, I facilitated a Community of Practice for high school social studies teachers in developing our Social Studies programs and implementation.
21st century learning and teaching embodies the notion of lifelong learning. Creating a Personal or Professional Learning Network (PLN) can enhance your professional learning. Creating links to Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn can provide a timely and efficient way to continually learn. To lead a community of practice and to lead a learning environment, it is necessary to model the same characteristics of a 21st century learner that we are asking students and teachers to embrace. We must be able to think creatively and critically and work independently and collaboratively.
Also, as the Social Studies program of studies was being implemented, the Social Studies teachers in high schools met and collaborated on developing lessons and assessments that not only reflected the new curriculum but also embedding 21st century skills into the program. Along with Mili Rowse, I facilitated a Community of Practice for high school social studies teachers in developing our Social Studies programs and implementation.
21st century learning and teaching embodies the notion of lifelong learning. Creating a Personal or Professional Learning Network (PLN) can enhance your professional learning. Creating links to Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn can provide a timely and efficient way to continually learn. To lead a community of practice and to lead a learning environment, it is necessary to model the same characteristics of a 21st century learner that we are asking students and teachers to embrace. We must be able to think creatively and critically and work independently and collaboratively.
