As a never-ending learner, I know that I often learn best when I am able to talk through the ideas and concepts I am attempting to understand. It is for this reason that I enjoy the opportunity each year to participate in a book study discussion group with a few colleagues. We just received our books yesterday and are planning out meeting times to delve into the wisdom of the DuFours on effective PLCs.
(K) Some of my notions and experiences with PLCs before reading:
* PLCs exist to create cohesive and effective learning situations for students
* Good PLCs use data to drive their discussions
* Good PLCs agree to and follow a set of norms
* PLCs allow teachers to collaborate rather than make things up on their own.
* Sometimes PLC discussions are tough because everybody has different ideas.
* It is important for everybody to be committed to the vision of a PLC or it is hard to work as one.
(W) Some things I hope to gain from this book study, or things I want to know:
* How does one effectively lead a PLC group?
* What are some things my PLC is not doing that could help us be more effective?
* What is the recommendation for number of people involved in a PLC?
* What are some strategies PLCs use to create curriculum together?
* How should/are PLCs held accountable?
(L) I am sure I will be learning many things as I read through this book and discuss it with others; I will post when I learn something new!
* Have you ever done a book study with your colleagues? What was the experience like?
* Have you read the DuFour book Learning By Doing before? What did you think?
* What are your thoughts/want-to-knows about PLCs?
