A real question: Chris, as we approach August, we plan to introduce our secondary math teachers to a "lesson study" process. This initiative will span the entire school year, aiming to enhance their ability to cater to diverse learners. We'll have support from a specialist from the (District), and some of our staff are undergoing training to become facilitators. However, not all teachers may initially embrace this opportunity. I'm contemplating the best approach to present this to them. While I believe the "we are all doing this" message needs to come from the administration, I'm pondering what would truly motivate our teachers. Given our low math scores, leveraging this data to create a sense of urgency seems logical, but could it evoke feelings of guilt or shame, ultimately being demotivating? What do you think should be the focal point of our messaging?
Waterfall’s Perspective: You're absolutely right to recognize that a simple "we are all doing this" will not effectively engage our teachers. You're asking for a strategy to enroll teachers in crafting the Call to Action themselves, ensuring they feel ownership over the process.
Let's explore this approach. Rather than just conveying the benefits of lesson study, we need to immerse our teachers in its value and thus leverage the power of storytelling. Experiencing value for oneself forms the foundations of new stories that change our beliefs.
Our role as coaches is pivotal here. We create an environment where teachers actively engage with lesson study, discovering its benefits on their own terms. By envisioning the potential narrative of their journey—from resistance to realization—we guide them through each step of the process.
When each teacher embarks on this journey to experience the elements of Lesson Study, initially met with skepticism, they will gradually experience both failures and those "ah-ha" moments that signify growth and progress. When we intentionally plan for reflection and problem-solving, giving them agency over the “how” (not the “what”), they build their own understanding of the positive impact on student learning. Focusing on this type of teacher agency makes us more likely to lead them to a sense of fulfillment and joy.
It's crucial to recognize that every teacher's journey will be unique. While we can anticipate certain milestones, we must remain flexible and open to their experiences. As coaches, we provide unwavering support, pushing them to overcome challenges, listening to their concerns, and sharing insights contributing to their growth.
In essence, our coaching journey is a collaborative one. We make visible that we learn and grow alongside our teachers while they reflect on their own struggles with Lesson Study. We continuously refine our approach to foster their professional development and enhance student learning. By empowering teachers to craft their Call to Action, we ensure they take ownership of the process, leading to sustained engagement and meaningful outcomes.