Professional learning communities enhancing teacher experiences in international schools

Article

Lalor, Brian and Abawi, Lindy. 2014. "Professional learning communities enhancing teacher experiences in international schools." International Journal of Pedagogies and Learning. 9 (1), pp. 76-86. https://doi.org/10.1080/18334105.2014.11082021
Article Title

Professional learning communities enhancing teacher experiences in international schools

ERA Journal ID39917
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsLalor, Brian (Author) and Abawi, Lindy (Author)
Journal TitleInternational Journal of Pedagogies and Learning
Journal Citation9 (1), pp. 76-86
Number of Pages11
Year2014
Place of PublicationMaleny, Australia
ISSN1833-4105
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/18334105.2014.11082021
Abstract

In international school contexts, schools that establish support networks for newly arrived staff tend to stand a better chance of retaining staff and creating a positive and successful work environment. The case study at the center of the paper is an International School in Vietnam and this paper aims to highlight the importance of building professional learning communities (PLCs), both as arenas for academic expertise to be shared and as support networks for teachers. The PLCs being researched were established in August 2011, with the research taking place over 6 weeks during April and May of 2013. Eleven teachers took part in the phenomenological case study undertaken to gain a better understanding of their lived experiences. Findings suggest there was a refocusing on student achievement as being central to teachers' core business; an understanding of the importance of teacher leadership developed; teachers felt more valued because personal professionalism was acknowledged; and, a culture of sharing collaboration and general support emerged.

Keywordsprofessional learning communities; teachers' lived experience; teacher leadership; international schooling
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020390307. Teacher education and professional development of educators
520102. Educational psychology
390403. Educational administration, management and leadership
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Byline AffiliationsSchool of Teacher Education and Early Childhood
Institution of OriginUniversity of Southern Queensland
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