This is My Department: Building Deep Professional Collaborations at a Distance for Rural Science Teachers
This study examines how rural science teachers develop and expand their professional networks for collaboration, advice, and friendship. A group of teachers participated in a year-long professional development program using technology-mediated lesson study, a novel model that supports collaborative lesson planning aligned with new state science standards.
Using social network analysis of survey data and qualitative analysis of interview data, the study found that participants' professional networks grew significantly larger than those of non-participants. More importantly, these networks expanded beyond what the structure of the program alone would predict. Teachers built deep and meaningful collaborations, forming both instrumental ties (focused on professional support) and expressive ties (personal connections).
These findings highlight the power of technology and cross-institutional collaboration in fostering strong, sustainable professional learning communities for rural educators.
Presentation Information:
Colorado Convention Center
Meeting Room Level - Room 105
Sunday, April 27, 1:30 to 3:00 pm