The following table presents a collection of fundamental resources on Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). These materials offer a comprehensive overview of the basic principles, development, and benefits of PLCs within various educational contexts. Whether you’re just starting to explore PLCs or seeking to solidify your foundational knowledge, these resources will provide you with essential information to support your understanding and implementation of PLCs in educational environments.
| GERMAN RESOURCES | |
|---|---|
| PIKAS Deutsches Zentrum für Lehrkräftebildung Mathematik https://pikas.dzlm.de/selbststudium/anregung-von-schulentwicklung/professionelle-lerngemeinschaften | The link leads to a German-language page that provides information about professional learning communities in the context of school development. The page introduces the concept of these communities, explains their importance for enhancing the quality of teaching, and offers specific materials and strategies to support teachers in working together effectively and learning from one another. The goal is to promote sustainable school development through collegial collaboration. |
| Bonsen, M., & Rolff, H.-G. (2006). Professionelle Lerngemeinschaften von Lehrerinnen und Lehrern. Zeitschrift für Pädagogik, 52(2), 167-184. https://www.pedocs.de/volltexte/2011/4451/pdf/ZfPaed_2006_2_Bonsen_Rolff_Professionelle_Lerngemeinschaften_D_A.pdf | This German-language article, published in the Zeitschrift für Pädagogik, discusses the concept of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) among teachers. It explores how PLCs can effectively combine teacher development with student learning and contribute to the overall improvement of schools. The article also provides an overview of the research and practical implementations of PLCs, particularly in the context of school development. |
| Frick, E., & Theurl, P. (2024). Professionelle Lerngemeinschaften im Bildungsbereich – vom Schulentwicklungsinstrument zum Professionalisierungsinstrument. Erziehung und Unterricht, 3-4, 280-352. https://www.oebv.at/images/global-images/EU-3-4_2024_Zusatzinfos_Leseprobe.pdf | This issue of Erziehung und Unterricht covers topics including resilience in schools and the role of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in education. The edition explores how PLCs serve as powerful tools for both school development and the professionalization of educators, including school leaders and student teachers. Please note that this is a preview, and the full issue is not available as open access; it can be purchased through the publisher. |
| ENGLISH RESOURCES | |
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| Vescio, V., Ross, D., & Adams, A. (2008). A review of research on the impact of professional learning communities on teaching practice and student learning. Teaching and Teacher Education, 24(1), 80-91. doi:10.1016/j.tate.2007.01.004 https://www.psycholosphere.com/A%20review%20on%20research%20on%20the%20impact%20of%20PLCs%20on%20teaching%20practice%20&%20student%20learning%20by%20Vescio,%20Ross%20&%20Adams.pdf | This English-language article, published in Teaching and Teacher Education, reviews research on the impact of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) on teaching practices and student learning. The article synthesizes findings from multiple studies, highlighting that well-developed PLCs positively influence both teaching practices and student achievement. The review emphasizes the importance of collaboration, a focus on student learning, teacher empowerment, and continuous professional development within PLCs to drive these improvements. |
| Christensen, A. A. (2022). A Global Measure of Professional Learning Communities. Professional Development in Education. https://doi.org/10.1080/19415257.2022.2065516 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19415257.2022.2065516#abstract | This article, published in Professional Development in Education, introduces the development of a global measure for Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) using data from the Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2018. The study outlines the theoretical foundations and key elements of PLCs, highlights inconsistencies in their conceptualization, and presents a validated measure applicable across various national contexts. It also demonstrates the utility of this measure by exploring the relationship between PLCs and teacher job satisfaction in Nordic countries. |
| DuFour, R. (2004). What is a Professional Learning Community? Educational Leadership, 61(8), 6-11. https://www.allthingsplc.info/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/DuFourWhatIsAProfessionalLearningCommunity.pdf | This article, published in Educational Leadership, provides a foundational overview of what constitutes a Professional Learning Community (PLC). Richard DuFour explains the key characteristics of PLCs, including a focus on learning, a collaborative culture, and a results-oriented approach. The article emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility for student learning, continuous improvement, and the use of data to drive instructional practices. DuFour’s work has been influential in shaping the understanding and implementation of PLCs in schools, advocating for their role in enhancing teacher collaboration and student achievement. |
| Vescio, V., & Adams, A. (2015). Learning in a Professional Learning Community: The Challenge Evolves. In D. Scott & E. Hargreaves (Eds.), The SAGE Handbook of Learning (pp. 274-284). SAGE Publications. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362758708_Learning_in_a_Professional_Learning_Community_The_Challenge_Evolves | This chapter, published in The SAGE Handbook of Learning, examines the evolution of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and the challenges they face in contemporary educational settings. The authors explore how PLCs have adapted over time, addressing the complexities of modern teaching environments while maintaining their core focus on collaborative professional development, reflective practice, and improving student outcomes. The chapter highlights the ongoing need for effective facilitation and support to ensure PLCs remain a powerful tool for enhancing teaching and learning. |
| ALLTHINGSPLC https://allthingsplc.info/ | The link leads to the “All Things PLC” website, a comprehensive resource for educators interested in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). The site offers a wide range of tools, strategies, and resources to help schools and districts implement and sustain effective PLCs. It includes articles, research, case studies, and best practices from schools that have successfully used PLCs to improve teaching and learning. The platform also provides access to expert guidance, workshops, and a community forum where educators can share experiences and advice on building strong PLCs. |