Trying to 'walk' the 'talk' - my random thoughts.

One of my responsibilities as Co-HOD of English is the managing of teacher appraisal. Something that I have grown to really appreciate and something that I am genuinely interested in. I am interested in understanding who my colleagues are, their inquiry topics and what their goals are. I think I enjoy it because if anything I learn so much from them. 

When speaking to my colleagues we often talk about what their inquiry is and what is the action that they should take in pursuing their inquiry. Earlier in Term 1 the Curriculum Committee discussed teacher's theories of action when focusing on student achievement. I wrote a few notes which I have tried to apply in my own practice and in particular, in the discourse with my colleagues when we are talking about finding a solution to the problem - what is the action required? What do we need to do? Who is responsible to drive this?  

Here are some of the ideas I had when inquiring into teacher's theories of action: 

1) Deep level engagement: Define problem

Often our scope of the big picture can be marred by our perspective, how we see it. Look at the trends, patterns and data when focusing on student achievement, keep it factual then you can find an accurate gap that needs attention.  

2) From here one needs to define what the problem is. 

Avoid trying to address every single issue. What is the major concern? What needs immediate intervention? 

3) Create dialogue.

When working with a team, it is crucial that the team feel safe and comfortable to participate in healthy discussions. It is imperative that the team also agrees on the problem and that together, the team needs to work as a cohesive unit. Some key questions to consider when one wants to create healthy and professional dialogue with the team are: 

• What is the problem?
• How do you feel?
• Why?
• What do we need to do?
• What evidence do you have?

4) What are my theories, values and beliefs around collaborative inquiry? 

Collaboration is only effective if you are confident in your area, respectful of others and what they bring to the area, you can agree to disagree and you embrace working "WITH" others. 

I hope to carry this level of enlightenment in all conversations with my colleagues when we collaborate.