The potential of professional learning communities for teacher learning in the community high schools in the Solomon Islands : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education at Massey University (Manawatu), New Zealand
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Date
2013
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Massey University
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Abstract
The rapid growth of community high schools throughout the Solomon Islands, since the
1990s, has put pressure on the government to provide trained teachers, together with
school curriculum materials and resources. Moreover, the Solomon Islands are expected to
experience a shortage of trained teachers over the next decade. An effective approach that
could be used to address the shortage of trained teachers is the establishment of professional
learning communities. This study explores the pre-existing ‘cultures’ of teachers within
two community high schools, in order to illuminate the formal and non-formal learning
experiences of teachers (together with other significant contextual factors related to these
community high schools), which could be built upon, to develop effective professional learning
communities that would lead to quality teacher learning.
This study draws on qualitative research methods and uses a case study approach. Ten
teachers in two community high schools participated in semi-structured interviews and focus
group discussions. A reflective journal was also used to gather data. The research question
that guided the data collection was:
What are the formal and informal learning experiences of teachers in
community high schools that may provide the basis for developing
professional learning communities for teachers’ learning?
The key findings of this research include the potential teaching and learning experiences of
the teachers in these two community high schools, which could be further improved, in order
to develop effective professional learning communities. Shared values and norms; collaborative
practices and structures; reflective practices; and a focus on student learning lend
support to professional learning communities. The findings also highlight existing obstacles
and hindrances to teachers’ learning experiences and practices that need to be addressed, in
order for professional learning communities to be established successfully in these schools.
This study suggests six recommendations for the establishment of professional learning
communities in community high schools which includes: shared responsibilities; sharing information
and ideas; active leadership roles; frequent departmental staff meetings; staff devotions;
and support from all stakeholders.
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Keywords
Professional learning communities, High school teachers, High schools, Secondary schools, Secondary school teachers, Solomon Islands