Chapter 2 – Reflection

The focus of Learning Communities is collaboration. It is vital that school personnel work together to implement PBL. When considering the term Learning Community, the effectiveness of the community is what facilitates the learning aspect of the concept. A Learning Community can begin by one teacher taking the initiative to use PBL in her/his classroom and then engaging their fellow colleagues. Or perhaps the school is innovative enough to have collaboration and PBL teamwork built into the agenda.

One of the benefits of a Learning Community to teachers is that it provides a built-in professional development offering. Teachers are often called to attend professional development seminars and courses, however, by instructing in a positive PBL environment the teacher is constantly learning, sharing, and developing their practice to better serve their students.

Learning Communities strengthen the professional bond between teachers. It allows for growth both professionally and personally. Learning Communities involve all  teachers and staff, therefore eliminating the feeling of isolation of teachers, and offering a support network for new teachers. Learning Communities often experience a change in focus, philosophy, and strive for critical thinking from staff and students.

Students benefit greatly from being in a Learning Community. They are responsible, active members in their own education and feel the importance of being a valued member of their school.  Since the main goal of this type of environment is student learning, the education received by the students is superior and will open their eyes to the value of collaboration; a tool they will always use in the future.

Taking the initial steps to implement a Learning Community is not that difficult; especially considering the vast rewards that will follow. The book offers key components for a new “organization” to help guide the team through the process. The first component is to have a clear sense of mission. All organizations write a mission statement, and this exercise allows the group to discuss and define their agenda. A few of those goals are: focus on student learning, collaboration, hold shared values and beliefs, and to see themselves as life-long learners. The process of writing mission statements help unite teams; reminding everyone of why we are here and what it is it that we are working to accomplish.

Our group project would certainly be a Learning Community for both students and teachers. Our project includes bringing in experts from the community, such as Naturalists, Artists, and local businesses. Our students will work together to think globally about where birds live, and how they vary by climate. Also, by using technology to chart migrations and life spans, our students will think beyond the here-and-now; looking into both the past and future of birds. We will utilize our fellow 3^rd grade classes and collaborate with them on items such as raffles, guest lists, and presentations. All information gathered and collected by our class will be shared in multiple formats, providing something for everyone and every learning style.