Facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration : secondary school teachers teaming for professional growth and school improvement

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Date
2003
Authors
Shaw, Brian
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2003
Abstract
This qualitative study incorporates elements of ethnography, participant observation, case study and action research to address the question In what ways may interdisciplinary collaboration of teachers be facilitated? The research setting is a public senior secondary school in British Columbia, Canada. Teaming of teachers for professional development, enhancement of student learning, and school improvement led to creation of crosscurricular collaborative teams and small changes in the culture of the high school. A process for thematically coding and analyzing multiple sources of qualitative data is presented. Eight themes emerge and are discussed: making time for collaboration; shared vision and values; purpose of teaming; forming groups; the political context; learning skills and interdisciplinary approaches; designing collaborative systems; and the pace of change. The project concludes with ideas for others engaging in similar research or facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration.
Description
vii, 97 leaves ; 29 cm. --
Keywords
Teachers -- In-service training -- British Columbia , Interdisciplinary approach in education -- British Columbia , Education, Secondary -- British Columbia
Citation