Designing Teacher Study Groups

Book excerpt: Recipe for a Successful Study Group: 6-12 highly motivated teachers; 1 efficient and confident facilitator; 10 inspiring, open-ended questions; and 2 buckets of smiles (laughter optional) Directions: Mix all ingredients. Liberally sprinkle with positive attitude. Enjoy! When you're working with a study group, you're not just having fun. You're furthering your professional development in the best possible way! Research shows that your professional development is best handled by you, with other teachers at your school site, in a cooperative environment of trust and support. Having a forum for the exchange of ideas gives you the power to expand your expertise through observation, discussion and application, and allows you to better meet the needs of your students. This resource shows you how to design a study group that fits your goals and schedules. Learn how to get your study group started--and keep it going--with tips on everything from how to recruit members, what materials to discuss, and how to generate stimulating dialogue. Included are recipes for tasty snacks to keep your colleagues satisfied, on track, and coming back for more! With a variety of flexible group formats and activities to choose from, you're sure to develop a program of creativity and growth that fits your agenda, no matter how hectic your calendar.