Long chat tonight with professional educator C.B. A man who is commited to his profession and passionate about closing the instruction – achievement gap. I stated that there were four core beliefs at work when PLCs were in session.
- Student work or related data was at the centre of the table and the centre of discussion
- Group or PLC norms or protocols were in place to moderate the discussion
- A facilitator was in place to keep to the goals and structures of the PLC
- The PLC team must engage in a final reflective practise piece to reflect on the meeting, the protocol or the process.
Why these rules? It is when these are in place that all players are of equal voice and that risks are taken and learning takes place. Student achievement is always our number one priority when having professional discussions. If norms are broken or protocols are not adhered to then others feelings, opinions, strategies, or comments are negated. A competent facilitator must help the whole process unfurl while keeping professional and sometimes personal relationships intact. A tonne of responsibility for the facilitator? Yes. That is why much must be invested in these people.
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