Professional Learning Communities A Multiple Case Study Of Four Elementary Schools By Debra J Martin

Professional learning communities (PLCs) are a proven construct that enhances learning for both teachers and their students. This mixed-methods multiple-case study explored the relationship between teachers' and administrators' perceptions about professional learning communities and their attributes in four elementary schools in a suburban school district in New Jersey. Multiple data sources included the Professional Learning Community Assessment, principal interviews, teacher focus groups and archival documentation to address the following research questions: (1) What supportive conditions are necessary for professional learning communities to effectively support student and adult learning? (2) How does participation in professional learning communities influence collective learning and application? and (3) How has the leadership role of the principal changed with the implementation of professional learning communities? The findings from both the quantitative and qualitative data presented a comprehensive picture of educators' perceptions about the first year's implementation of professional learning communities in the areas of supportive and shared leadership, collective learning and application, and supportive relational and structural conditions. After analyzing the data of this action research, common themes emerged: focus on student learning, teacher job-embedded learning, collaboration, supportive conditions, collective capacity, results-oriented assessments for learning, and a systematic monitoring and response to each student's proficiency. Other significant conclusions for professional learning community implementation included: (1) collaborative cultures, based on trust and respect, develop over time and allow for risk taking in the learning process; (2) norm building is necessary for effective collaboration; (3) PLC time must be regularly embedded into the teachers' schedule to ensure collective inquiry and dialogue; (4) the principal provides instructional materials and resource staff to support shared practice and continuous learning; and (5) the principal shares information and collaborates on decision-making issues connected to student learning. This study demonstrated that the development of effective, sustainable professional learning communities is a process that develops over time with a principal providing the necessary supportive conditions to enhance levels of trust among all staff so they can work collectively to ensure both student and adult learning.