Beyond the Classroom Walls: Cultivating Professional Learning Communities for 21st Century Learners ((3 Credits))

Catalog description

Beyond the Classroom Walls: Cultivating Professional Learning Communities for 21st Century Learners explores the power of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in schools and organizations. The book emphasizes how well-functioning PLCs can improve decision-making and create a lasting impact on both educators and students. By focusing on purposeful collaboration, the authors show how intentional design and implementation of PLCs can lead to better teaching practices, improve student learning outcomes, and create a more positive school culture. This course offers strategies, insights, and examples for building and sustaining high-performing PLCs that focus on continuous improvement and accountability. PLCs have become increasingly popular in K-12 schools due to their emphasis on collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and their ability to improve both instruction and student outcomes. Over time, PLCs have evolved to include an additional purpose: enhancing educators’ attitudes and approaches toward students. This course is designed to strengthen and enhance existing PLCs, but it requires going beyond basic collaboration. The PLUS—which stands for supporting teachers in understanding individual and collective efficacy, expectations, equity, and facilitating learning for both students and staff—is crucial for success. By taking this course, you will be able to reinvigorate your PLC and increase its impact, ultimately fostering a more dynamic, growth-oriented environment for all involved.