Professional Learning Communities

As the chat stated, it is true that traditional Professional Development ideas always sound good, but hardly ever get implemented. I, myself, am guilty of that. I found the idea of Professional Learning Communities to be very interesting. I could understand how it may be difficult to implement for a variety of reasons. Many teachers are comfortable with their routine and may not want to share their ideas with others. Also, the amount of time required, time restrictions, different schedules, etc. can prevent a PLC from becoming a reality. I know that my grade level collaborates often, usually during lunchtime. However, the PLC is more structured and involved.

I think that they sound like a good idea, despite the extra time and effort. Student learning/ achievement would benefit from PLC's as all teachers in that grade level would be "on the same page." Testing, grading, etc. would be uniform, which, I think would give a better idea of how a child is performing in a certain grade. Many tests that are given are the same, however, some teachers administer additional tests. These tests would, of course, change a student's grade. I always felt that two heads are better than one and if someone could show me how to do something better, I would be more than willing to do it! However, through experience I also know there are those who think that they "know it all" and would be very resistent to change.

Many things need to be changed in a traditional school to foster PLC's. Common planning time, the willingness and desire of all members to participate equally, principal awareness and involvement, etc. are several major factors that are required. In reality, it could be done; however, I don't think it could be accomplished across the board. There are many teachers who are too set in their ways and would not be willing participants. What happens to student achievement when they go from a team of PLC teachers to a group of non PLC teachers?

I was impressed that low SES students improved their academic performance when PLC's were implemented. Could this change the trend that has existed for the past several decades?

I would like to know if the PSSA test scores were higher for students of PLC teachers. In this test driven society, what types of assessments were used in the classroom? Were they easier than the questions that would be on the PSSA? If the positive research results continue, in the future, do you think that PLC will be mandated instead of voluntary?