Professional Learning Networks: Facilitating Transformation in Diverse Contexts with Equity-seeking Communities

by Leyton Schnellert

Overview

In a time of rapid policy and curriculum change, educators must be knowledge workers who continue to develop professionally. This book offers a critical exploration of how Professional Learning Networks (PLNs) equip educators to work collaboratively to develop their professional practice and be agents of innovation in their field. 

Providing access to six real-life examples of equity-oriented Professional Learning Networks, this book illustrates key attributes that build educators’ practice, expertise, and investment in innovation. Crucially, the authors shine a light on the ability of PLNs to address questions of equity, both for educators working in remote and rural communities who have limited access to professional development and other resources, and diverse learners from equity-seeking communities. 

This book is of interest to readers from scholarly, practitioner, and policy backgrounds who want to gain an innovative look at real-life cases to inform current and future equity-oriented PLNs. Readers will discover the importance and potential of centering teachers, students, inquiry, collaboration, and context within educational transformation efforts.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781787698949
Publisher:	Emerald Publishing Limited
Publication date:	05/26/2020
Series:	Emerald Professional Learning Networks Series
Pages:	216
Product dimensions:	5.08(w) x 7.80(h) x (d)

About the Author

Leyton Schnellert is an Associate Professor and Eleanor Rix Professor of Rural Teacher Education in The University of British Columbia’s Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy. His scholarship attends to how teachers and learners can mindfully embrace student diversity and inclusive, place-conscious education.

Table of Contents

About the Contributors ix

1 Exploring the Potential of Professional Learning Networks Leyton Schnellert 1

2 Collaborative Professionalism Across Cultures and Contexts: Cases of Professional Learning Networks Enhancing Teaching and Learning in Canada and Colombia Shaneé A. Washington Michael T. O'Connor 17

3 Professional Learning Networks Among District Leaders: Advancing Collective Expertise and Leadership for Learning Catherine McGregor Judy Halbert Linda Kaser 49

4 Tracing Cycles of Teachers' Self- and Co-regulated Practice Within a Professional Learning Network Deborah L. Butler Leyton Schnellert 73

5 How Rural Educators Improve Professional Capital in a Blended Professional Learning Network Min Jung Kim Karen Martin 107

6 Growing the Top: Examining a Mentor-Coach Professional Learning Network Trista Hollweck 141

7 Shifting Our Gaze: Relational Space in Professional Learning Network Research Joelle Rodway Elizabeth N. Farley-Ripple 171

Index 193