Standards+Question+12


 * Read the Case Study regarding Collaboration on page 27 of the NSDC Standards text handed out in class. In your PLC discuss Discussion Questions 1-4. Have a record keeper in your group synthesize your group's responses to these questions. If your group needed more information, describe what you need to know and how you would go about discovering this information.**

1. Consider your past experiences with various groups. What were the characteristics of productive and non-productive groups?
 * In my experience, the most productive groups utilized the strengths of each individual. Also, productive groups have a purpose, strong communication skills, and groups members feel that they can trust each other. Productive groups have conflict resoultion skills for the inevitable moments of disagreement that will arise. Finally, productive groups also frequently recognized the importance of collaboration and valued the time and opportunity they got to work together.**
 * Non-productive groups included dishonest members and members who will not willing to "face the facts" or manage disagreements. Also, non-productive groups hone in on each other's weaknesses versus ultilizing each other's strengths. Non-productive groups were unable to stay focused or strive towards a common goal. Ultimately, negative attitudes can also lead to non-productive groups.**

2. What knowledge, skills, and attitudes need to be developed to facilitate a collaborative work culture?
 * First and foremost, teachers need to be taught HOW to work together successfully. Some educators have not spent much time working with others; therefore, they need more professional development opportunities that would support a collaborative working environment. To facillitate a collaborative work culture, the purpose of the group needs to be presented needs to be clear and compelling. Collaborative norms need to be developed. Conflict-resolution skills need to be taught and nutured. Teachers need to enter the collaboration with open minds and positive attitudes. Finally, teachers need knowledge about effectively completing the group's tasks while maintaining the expectations of the collaborative group members.**

3. What kind of outcomes are best achieved through collaboration?
 * Collaboration can lead to more effective problem solving as well as providing social interaction. Collaboration can also lead to increased teamwork and greater "synergy." Collaboration can also provide teachers with strong conflict-resolution skills and communication skills. Finally, collaboration encourages teachers to learn a variation of teaching strategies and "tricks."**

4. How do school and/or district groups currently deal with conflict? What conditions or behaviors are necessary to facilitate the productive resolution of conflict?
 * Some school and/or district groups already have a protocol in place that can be used when conflict arises. Conflicts in school groups may be mediated by an outside (such as an administrator or another teacher). Depending on the nature of a culture, an anonymous vote can sometimes push a conflict to move forward. Most commonly, conflict is resolved throught continued professional discussion. Productive resolution of conflict requires a professional, calm attitude. It is important that all participants maintain an open mind and are willing to look at the conflict from all sides. Also, participants should not shy away from controversial topics or disagreement. Ultimately, some conflict will only help the group become more collaborative.**