Standards+Question+12


 * Read the Case Study regarding Collaboration on page 27 of the NSDC Standards text handed out in class. In your PLC discuss Discussion Questions 1-4. Have a record keeper in your group synthesize your group's responses to these questions. If your group needed more information, describe what you need to know and how you would go about discovering this information.**

1. Consider your past experiences with various groups. What were the characteristics of productive and non-productive groups? Characteristics of productive groups include good planning, structure, norms and protocols, and an ability to agree to disagree and also to respect all group members whether you agree with them or not. All members of this kind of group feels they have a voice. Non-productive groups are ones that get bogged down with differences and have trouble working past disagreements. 2. What knowledge, skills, and attitudes need to be developed to facilitate a collaborative work culture? Planning, conflict resolution, problem solving, team building and group dynamics are elements necessary to facilitate a collaborative work culture. 3. What kind of outcomes are best achieved through collaboration? Responsibility both to oneself and the collective group are achieved through Collaboration. Teachers develop a sense of shared responsibility and this is modeled for students so that they build the same responsibility for their learning. 4. How do school and/or district groups currently deal with conflict? What conditions or behaviors are necessary to facilitate the productive resolution of conflict? Schools and districts have to be aware that conflicts are a natural part of the collaborative process. They all go through several phases - getting to know one another, establishing a clear purpose, address conflicts as they arise and become effective at performing the groups work that meets the needs of both the individual and the group. Teachers will focus on their fundamental beliefs about teaching and learning and the goal of improving student achievement.