Action Research

Building a Culture of Collaboration in an Emerging Project-Based Learning School

 

How do school leaders support communities during change?  In our action research, we explored how shared professional learning experiences affect teacher culture in the midst of a school community moving towards project-based learning (PBL). We reviewed effective practices in adult learning and collegiality in schools. Through a series of interviews, surveys, focus groups, and exit slips, we collected data to learn about teachers’ experiences participating in a  project design course embedded in an elementary charter school in San Diego. This data was utilized  to support teacher needs and determine our next steps in professional development.  We identified three major benefits of these shared learning experiences: the development of a growth mindset, a safe professional space, and a culture of collegiality. Our work speaks to the value of shared professional experiences in fostering an adult learning community, especially amidst changes in the approach to teaching and learning.

 

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