Peer coaching is a trend that many districts are finding helpful in increasing rigor in core content areas and supporting teachers’ growth in applying best teaching practices. This same method can be used to support teachers’ integration of technology as well. And, since peer coaching is about improving practice and not intended to be evaluative, you and your teachers should find this method of teacher support welcoming and effective.
Peer coaching may look different for different campuses. While we traditionally think of it as a one-on-one situation, it can be a more collaborative and collegial group made up of a team of teachers from a particular grade level or content area.
Getting Started
Here are some tips to get you started:
- Research various peer coaching gurus. Each will have his own style and protocols to follow.
- Define what you want the end result to be for your teachers (and students).
- Investigate activities within the chosen model that best fit your goal(s) and school culture.
- Include all teachers early on in the process to build buy in and increase their motivation to participate.
Resources
To learn more, check out the following resources:
- How to Plan and Implement a Peer Coaching Program by Pam Robbins
- Instructional Coaching: Driving Meaningful Tech Integration
- ISTE Standards for Coaches
- Professional Development for Technology Integration
- Enhancing Education Through Technology (EETT): Supporting teachers in creating Future Ready classrooms
If you are a campus technology specialist interested in implementing peer coaching with your teachers, consider attending the Campus Technology Specialist Academy to be held on November 16-17, 2017 in Austin. This engaging event will feature innovative ways to help staff integrate technology and improve their teaching. Registration is open now.
Are you already using peer coaching as a way to help teachers innovate teaching and learning with technology? If so, email Bruce Ellis and share your story. We’d love to hear from you.
This post was updated with additional resources on February 2, 2017.