Collaboration Conversation

I have been reviewing a new book of questions, designed to re-energize the creative juices in our collaboration time.  Much of our collaboration time has morphed into a 'typical' Wednesday grade level meeting.  There are great things happening - but I think the focus on data, while important, has taken some of the creative aspects from this dynamic opportunity.  Warning - I'm not saying to stop using data.  Rather, I'm reflecting on the fuller description of a Professional Learning Community.  While time is appropriately used to look at student data and make grouping or curriculum decisions for next steps, it is also appropriate to look at the instructional aspects of teaching.   Not just what to teach or who to teach, but HOW to teach for greatest impact.

Reflecting back to previous collaboration use and training, you might recall protocols to evaluate student work or instructional problem solving.  It is my belief that we have developed enough trust in each other to be open and honest professionally.   We are at a good place collegially to help each other by looking at how we teach and ask probing questions about those choices.

What if some of you broke out of grade level planning on Wednesdays and collaborated around interests of growth.  For example, if the Vale group would like to collaborate around classroom instruction techniques (and invite others to join), they may challenge each other and expand their practice (maybe even observe each other???).

Some are currently taking the technology integration class.  Would you like to collaborate around planning to use technology, helping you take those baby steps???  And yes, you could also observe each other and provide feedback during collaboration time.

What about studying new ways to increase student engagement?  Or building questioning skills - learning to write scaffolded questions based on research that improve learning.  This challenge is about using collaboration time to build your instruction skills also, not just planning or preparing lessons, but deeper. 

An idea would be to keep one week a month set aside for grade level data meetings and the other weeks a little more flexible for the creative element.  I could share some of the 180 Questions to stimulate conversations.  Here are some examples: What adjective would our students use to describe yesterday's lesson?  Last week's?  What does excellent teaching look like to students?  To parents?  Comment - share your thoughts - what would you like to do during collaboration time?

You do not have to change what you are doing as far as collaboration - you are using the time wisely.  Is it meeting your needs though?  I want to empower you switch it up if you are wanting more.  What is the goal or purpose of your time spent collaborating?  Make sure your needs are being met.  I'd love to hear your thoughts or read your comments.