Supporting Adult Learning in Schools Through Improvement Research
In my research project, I explored which support structures help teachers at a project-based high school in California make changes to improve their practice, specifically in terms of fostering collaboration in their classrooms. Using improvement research as a framework, we implemented several change ideas such as purposeful grouping and groupworthy tasks. After analyzing data from professional development meetings, collegial coaching, surveys, and interviews, we were able to determine which change ideas led to improvement. From my study, I found that teachers are more likely to make changes in their practice when the adult learning environment is personalized and differentiated. For example, teacher choice in the area of improvement and change ideas to be implemented initiatives led to stronger buy-in. My findings suggest that in order to create lasting change, school leaders should implement structures that support voice and choice in teacher improvement efforts.