Term
Fall 9-10-2016
Capstone
Thesis
Degree Name
MAEd
Primary Advisor/Dissertation Chair
Jason Miller
Secondary Advisor/Reader One
Brad Sanderson
Peer-Reviewer/Reader Two
Jim Souhan
Abstract
The research question addressed in this capstone was, are characteristics of a PLC guiding student achievement? The inspiration for this capstone was sparked by an unexplainable anomaly within a school district's MCA performance data between schools within their district and an intense interest in a DuFour’s research addressing professional learning communities. The author of this case-study style research looked to examine if characteristics of a PLC can be present and guide student performance without a fully functioning and formal PLC school-wide structure. This study documents that singular aspects of a PLC can guide student achievement and likens a co-taught classroom structure to a small and efficient PLC structure. This capstone also addresses the history of education reform and the common missteps of trying to initially implement a PLC structure.
Research Methodology
Case Study
Keywords
Reflective Practice, Staff Development, Teachers/ Teaching, Professional Learning Communities
Recommended Citation
Souhan, Staci Faye, "Are Characteristics Of A Professional Learning Community Guiding Student Achievement" (2016). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 4214.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/4214