Edited by Penelope J. Wald and Michael S. Castleberry
As professionals in the field of education, many of us have mastered the skill of learning individually, but our capacity to learn collectively is underdeveloped. This chapter introduces a process that supports staff in learning together—a process that helps develop collaborative cultures— “where people continually expand their capacity to create the results they truly desire, where new and expansive patterns of thinking are nurtured, and where collective aspiration is set free” (Senge, 1990, p. 3). The collaborative learning process begins as people discover and express their personal aspirations and needs. Collaborative learning teams then form around shared interests. The teams explore, talk about, and experiment with many ideas. Finally, new practices emerge. We have woven a scenario involving Hayward Elementary School throughout the chapter to illustrate the application of the collaborative learning process.
Establishing a Staff Development Plan
We expect teachers to give their all to the growth and development of students. But a teacher cannot sustain such giving unless the conditions exist for the continued growth and development of the teacher (Sarason, 1993, p. 62).
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