#edchat Archive
#Edchat is a hashtag, a movement—it is a weekly organized Twitter discussion of educators and people interested in education that meet virtually from all over the world. #Edchat serves as a conversation thread on Twitter and is also used for organized weekly discussions.
Tuesday August 23, 2016
is about to begin and continue for an hour. Please refrain from using the Hashtag unless you are participating in the actual chat.
Topic:Are tchr coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Professional Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
Topic: Are tchr coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Prof Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
Are teacher coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Professional Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
WELCOME Are teacher coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of Professional Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
Topic: Are tchr coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Professional Development for schls? Benefits/Drawbacks?
Join Topic: Are teacher coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of Professional Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
Good question, Tom. I think we have to look at staffing carefully, make sure we have ample educators w/time-on-task w/Ss.
I'm mostly a fan of co-coaching, where T's have the chance to coach each other as they all work w/Ss.
"So what are we to do while we wait for science to rediscover all this, for the data to prove it?" https://t.co/uckDj1rfjn
I find that when educators are distanced from Ss too often, there's not as much positive impact.
Now Are teacher coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Prof. Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
benefit = teacher coaches are non-evaluative & offer peer support. Can also build morale in buildings
not having coaches here (at least for me) what makes them inefficient?
Whether coaches are productive rests entirely on the effectiveness of the coach. Some are great & some a waste of time.
If you aren't using Class Dojo in your room, it is worth looking at!! This is my first year using it and I'm in love 😍
Too many are forced upon teachers and lack classroom connection. Rather see teachers with chance to mentor and lead.
But how much time can that teacher leader spend in the classroom w/teachers to support development?
I'm incredibly passionate about working with fellow Ts on improving instruction - we're not in this alone!
The idea of teachers being coached makes a lot of sense. The idea that more adults could be working with kids does too.
A1: As with all education initiatives, it depends on the implementation and the support or buy-in from those involved.
If you have a great coach, it’s well worth the cost.
so is that something that is localized to your experience, or do you think it is systemic?
I agree--I'd like to see T's have time for co-coaching each other, working collaboratively.
Often not really a well thought out approach. Too distant IMO. I like a hybrid model.
We have a shared model at our grade-level, and find that we're always coaching each other.
Theoretically, a coach could impact more students than that same person in the classroom. Does it work well in practice?
Are those coaches not teachers from a classroom experience background?
Yet, sometimes I think it can be the model too--some great T's don't have the right structure to coach.
coaches likely don't have their own classes, could spend a period. Also recommend using
danieldowns: RT JenWilliamsEdu: 5 Nearpod Tips and Tricks for this School Year via nearpod … https://t.co/tLFyMkyC1i
danieldowns: RT ThoughtSTEM: We are on a mission to inspire the next generation of coders. … https://t.co/zqJsJZe54b
do you think that coach implementation isn't intentional enough?
To some degree, effectiveness is dependent on buy in from both admin and teachers. If no value is seen, none will be.
Are you helped by a coach regularly? If so, what strategies work best?
Just because you are from classroom background doesn't assume you still have that connection.
My STEM teaching coach is ah-maze-ing! I can't imagine working w/out her guidance. She plans relevant PD for us, too.
how long will you have to be out before you feel you have lost touch?
I think it is often forced. I always value a hybrid model. Too many have coaches without thoughtful implementation.
Interesting topic in tonight’s - Are tech coaches “worth it”?
Interesting topic in tonight’s - Are tech coaches “worth it”?
Also, firm believe that teacher coaches are NOT mini admin, but a support and resource for instruction. https://t.co/XwLRzdBSIn
Are teacher coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Professional Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
I agree--I think the hybrid model offers a lot to Ss, school, and colleagues.
I'm not, but my district has them in elementary & I've heard great things from Ts & coaches
I already feel it. One week in. Seriously.
It seems like that happens quickly to many--I'm not sure why, something I'm curious about.
I am sure it varies in implementation and practice all over, seen some coaches work others no so much. coaches need connection to Ss
Two coaches have told me they switched because coaching was easier than class teaching.
Tell us more about this model, Mandy.
I'll say listening & trust have to come first. You're not there to say be like me - but "how can I help you"
I would like admin to teach a class a day too.
wow-fantastic bit on charter schools So true. kids should not be in the middle of failed "business dealings" in ed.
Todd, I wonder what attributes make coaching most successful. https://t.co/rxK1TfbHMc
I am sure it varies in implementation and practice all over, seen some coaches work others no so much. coaches need connection to Ss
I would think so. Probably a different skill set is needed too.
Gr8 prof dev & collab across schools as principals & teachers prepare for school year! https://t.co/4NP8tGoXZX
Unprecedented.Every teacher from EVERY school in GM meeting at DMS for learning. 300 educators strong! RamNation!
Admin & Teacher buy in, supports & growth measures for both. opportunities to explore & fail
I agree about the “forced” part; impedes effectiveness. Too often, high quality coaching is hit-or-miss.
STEM school coach supports Ts, guides instruction, works w/ Ss daily, plans field trips AND plans our PD.
Coaches should have to model with or for Ts so they don't lose the classroom connection. Hey into classrooms, be seen, be a resource
It also depends on district resources for tech purchases.
What's the structure like in terms of time?
Kind of reinforces my point that effectiveness rests w/skills of the individual coach.
What is the topic tonight?
our coaches are such a valuable support in so many ways
TEACHERS TEACHING TEACHERS ABOUT TEACHING… makes so much sense. Why not more common? What to do?
My model would be level appropriate former classroom teachers versed in tech working full time as teacher coaches WITH teachers.
any teacher can benefit from coaching nobody is perfect and coaches can learn from others too
and integrate this where possible.
Exactly. Just like some tchrs are great for one type student & a disaster for another type.
Are tchr coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Prof Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
Our coach planned a district-wide STEM edcamp for Ts! was the keynote. How cool?!
Sure you can benefit if the coaching is good. A bad coach can also have negative impact.
Bingo. It is all perception, personality and intent.
I almost agree. Any tchr can benefit from high quality coaching; crappy coaching—not so much.
I think it's about the structure involved--who does what and why, I don't always the role fits the need.
Sounds as if you may have had a bad personal experience with a specific coach.
Good Q. She meets w/ content T groups 2x weekly during prep periods. But she is around as needed always.
that's where admin needs to step in, coaches are evaluated just like teachers
I'd agree with that statement in general.
Successful teacher coaches CONNECT teachers with other teachers and resources… what else?
What special knowledge should such coaches have? Is teaching experience in itself enough?
Nope. I just think some people make assumptions that title of "coach" makes them relevant when in fact it does not.
If you are a mentee with a poor mentor/teacher coach, how can you change that relationship?
Sounds like a hands-on, committed individual w/a model that fosters good collaboration.
Teachers coaching teachers about teaching… here’s a nifty artifact of from efforts of one teacher -> https://t.co/pQYIIlXj50
Too often coaches are not available, supportive, and connected to T's needs. More responsive to admin.
Sometimes that connection just doesn't work--good to look for other informal mentors.
then again, I've learned what not to do from bad teachers too.. all in how you look at it
Coach needs to be personable & able to relate well w/ppl. Needs to be knowledgeable about whatever topic coaching is about.
Coaching should be about helping teachers NOT about pushing district mandates
This can be tricky as the mentor often has clout w/respect to your position.
Good point - and this doesn't always sit well with Ts.
good co-teaching is a learning multiplier.
Much to be learned from bad teachers.
Would a teacher coaching strategy warrant the cost. What's the return on investment if we use business terms.
I really think that the idea of coaches should be replaced w/co-coaching/teaching models where T's coach each other.
We agree. We found some of the best PD came from things we've learned from teachers in school and out. https://t.co/eVE2R53u7j
TEACHERS TEACHING TEACHERS ABOUT TEACHING… makes so much sense. Why not more common? What to do?
There's often sensitivity about time--often elem T's can't even go to the restroom, but coaches often have time.
Coaching is finding what works for the teacher not just saying "this works for me"
exactly, find others who do X well and share out! I also think incorporating video for self reflection helps Ts
I have experienced that, too. That's not a coach, that's another admin.
I'd love to see that truthfully analyzed--so many analyses in schools are not done in ways that are truthful.
Ts respond to peers who lead, not leaders that "teach". Teach the leaders for true results https://t.co/LhALrJbFw8
Now Are teacher coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Prof. Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
That is great advice... I can think of a few that would be good places to start.
Yes, co-coaching/co-teaching can be terrific if supported well.
It seems like one coach per many can lead to disconnects. But I'm not talking from any direct experience.
excellent question/point - I had a situation that almost drove me from profession altogether. Talk to others!
The structure of the position matters a lot--who makes decisions and has voice/choice matters.
An important part of coaching is the constant formative assessment stance w other teachers.
Coaches are often rated by scores--therefore scores are ultimate aim, sometimes don't relate to big picture of classroom
Our job is 2 help Ts shine! It's not about us, it's abt how we can support Ts in helping our Ss grow & learn https://t.co/KBySu1BNyQ
Coaching is finding what works for the teacher not just saying "this works for me"
The problem with getting that "coach/mentor" title is you have to play by their rules ... Without the title I can play by my rules
Coaching teachers? Begin with the end in mind… learning.
"Is teaching experience... enough?" - no, but experience plus empathy-and-insights would be enough.
I think that goes without having to be defined. You know when you see it.
lol, first they have to be able to get along :)
Friends of mine who have coaches that drop in every 6 wks to tell them what to do--don't even know T's or Ss.
and also admit "I don't know it all, but I can & want to help" - I think that gets your foot in the door w Ts
Wonder if teachers had more time to collaborate free of initiatives and protocols if coaches would be needed?
We always go back to the "faculty" meeting information dead zone; why not bring value added PD into time allotted already?
"Their rules" can be challenging if the coach is mostly an "accountability manager."
I am constantly amazed by the number of teachers I see treating other teachers poorly. Who can trust them with kids?
My Instructional Coaching page https://t.co/vRQbBvFlkZ Follow awesome coaches at Use their expertise to provide PD.
listen, find goals, establish plan to meet goals, build trust, & keep at it
Sounds like the supervisor of "coaches" need to be retrained and a better job description written...
Our 2 tech coaches offer authentic, personalized PD in real time. Very beneficial & effective!
New T's can profit from coaches,I also think veteran T's can profit from new T's, thus co-coaching.
I disagree. Your right people might not be my right people. I may not want to co-teach w/yours
Coaching teachers brings the team along from weak to strong.
That happens when environments are oppressive--we have to take the oppression away from teaching environments.
most definitely - ed is always changing so we need to be open to change with it
I find I can help teachers bcuz I'm not married to district mandates ... I can listen and give unbiased thoughts
I think there's lots of room for systematic change in schools--time to update our structures/roles.
The 1st time you hear a speech/presentation should not be the day it is delivered in class. Use PhotoBooth & hear them practice.
True coaching is a partnership. And partnerships rarely rest on mandates.
What makes this not simple is all the expectations that are attached to "coach"
this is interesting - what extra "rules" would be expected (even enforced??) with a "coach/mentor" title?
I love working w/colleagues as we try to teach all Ss well--we're in it together, that's better than outside coach.
When? How? Where? Tell me more--examples?
…but you need to be aware when you’re learning from a negative example.
Coaching has to have flexibility; if not, it's not your team.
Often coach/mentors are told to lead agendas that may not match current research, what's best for Ss.
you can say that, but if you are district and they say we are 5E ... go coach 5E ...there are your orders
like the comment about blind spots, we all have them!
we have video examples of high achieving Ts, good to show examples
I actually pay an outside coach to help me w/teaching--love it! It's honest, truthful, supportive.
Yes but the way you coach 5E can be up to you. If not, then the one giving orders misunderstand coaching.
tech coaches are trained by the district ... only on what district pushes out control through ignorance
I keep making subject-verb agreemt errors in my haste to get to 140 characters - sorry.
Yes, coaches often have "orders" to follow, and those "orders" don't always match good teaching.
yes, being able to help more effectively with freedom, without "district mandates" makes sense
hopefully you'd be able to see the problems ie lack of student engagement
Coaching and mentoring are based on partnership, but they have different responsibilities.
Yes, and in honest, trusting, collegial relationships, we can work on those w/strength.
too often district uses "coach/mentor" but really mean trainer.
Yes we do learn from the negatives but they need not be featured to teach us.They're too much a part of the status quo.
Seems like there needs to be room for the "in the moment" teaching of tech - applied to Ss as well as Ts.
Ah, yes, "trainer" is different. I say training is for dogs; development is for people!
How do you present the video examples to teachers?
yes, if "often coach/mentors are told to..." it could be better to have the freedom describes.
Or "accountability manager" - a "coach" can make sure district mandates are being implemented.
Too often T's who are well trained and committed don't have voice and choice in the school--problem.
sounds like coaching can help build those relationships, not overnight but..
tech coaches are dedicated, full-time coaches and they do provide solid return on investment.
Love the idea of a culture of development--one where we all work to move each other forward.
Topic being discussed Now: Are tchr coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing PD for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
twitter is awesome ... I have like 5000 coaches from which to glean information
The use of time creates "powerful" and "powerless" in schools--this is an important consideration.
I would rather have the freedom than the title ...
Joann, do you have an example of this--story, stats
Sorry been lurking. I've been a coach for 6 yrs & I've learned more than I've taught Ts. Most important is that all Ts need autonomy
huh ... just like the kids ... train them well and they will never speak out ...
I agree- I like learner's mindset--educators seeking answers, collaborating, serving Ss.
As Lit Coach, I provide research, resources, skills & strategies 2 all disciplines. https://t.co/70KNZxVNZN
Topic being discussed Now: Are tchr coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing PD for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
If we're talking PD, I personally prefer going outside the school where I can learn different perspectives in many ways.
does requiring teachers to have coaches take away some autonomy?
I'm fan of streamlined admin--most T's/educators w/responsibility for time-on-task service to Ss.
Agree--autonomy, mastery, and purpose are key words for teaching/learning well.
Today I supportd Citizenship class; demo'd vocab lssn in Geo; tomorrow in Comp Sci showng how to read code.
Terrific! This goes for students and teachers. https://t.co/OiX9eLZRGh
Ah, yes, "trainer" is different. I say training is for dogs; development is for people!
we're rolling it out, but they're on our district site org by grade, content, and danielson domain - great resource
I think "outside learning" is great and "inside learning" important too--have to find right mix.
and time to try things out ...
I guarantee if I was your Lit Coach, your lssns would be researched-based, best practice ways 4 Ss 2 learn & grow
Oooh! I like the addition of the danielson doman! Great idea.
Depends on the model imposed--some coaches are more like "police"
I watched A LOT in prep for PD workshop presentation, you notice a lot & you can watch on your time, 100 times if needed
anyone that supports teachers in the classroom is a solid investment.
Then we can have peace and quiet in all of our buildings ....
Is anyone using video for self-reflection and/or discussion w/coach?
True support means getting in there,working w/Ss & T, questioning,researching
Nancy, what I don't like about this is that teaching is so much more than the video/presentation.
When we assume a child's ignorance about our subject...we also likely doubt their future success.
I would like to try podcasts this year, maybe video, too. has some great ideas I'm looking to borrow.
Too often teaching is judged by the "performance" rather than the deep relationship, preparation, whole pic.
We need to change the Edu PD Model.Teacher coaching might be one way to make PD part of the Job supporting teachers where they live.
I don't think teaching is a performance sport, but instead a deep, trusting, forward moving relationship.
If you're looking for a way to validate Coach, let me know. I have entire presentation showcasing what I do!
Examples of great talks to share with students? National Speaking Week wants to feature them! Send to https://t.co/fharBZQTyd
then your school clearly hired wrong person Coaching done well is not easy
if the coach is eager to support/model (even stumble)/discuss-teachers are more likely to use the coach as a resource.
Tom, do you have examples of coaching that really makes a difference? I'd like to see this.
While I do think having someone in your building is convenient, it can also be limiting. I agree w/the idea of balance.
We’ve enjoyed using Swivl to record teaching then reflect on professional practices to improve. https://t.co/MKvp2L3EkZ
Peg, it's not so much what the coach does, but it's the Ss outcome, engagement, T development. . .
teachers coaching teachers teaching students.. Exponential rewards
this is key, properly trained, can be highly effective, lack of training can be train wreck 4 all
Thank you I've been sharing that cause/effect in my tweets as well https://t.co/xZPD25go3Q
Peg, it's not so much what the coach does, but it's the Ss outcome, engagement, T development. . .
The coaching model needs more than one coach in a building. That is a drawback.
RT: Too oft teaching is judged by the "performance" rather than the deep relationship, preparation, whole pic.
Hey world: Any ideas of thematic connections to Brit lit? Poems, non-fiction, other works? Thanks!
Teaching IS a performance WITH the relationship & trust elements being critical.
Depends on the coach and their "extra" responsibilities. Also, CTs need to utilize the coach(es) https://t.co/L2eQqrXBBt
Topic:Are tchr coaches a productive, cost effective strategy of continuing Professional Development for schools? Benefits/Drawbacks?
I work in sysw/many highly experienced veteran T's--good place for co-coaching
Is the divisiveness in coaching and mentoring over compensation because it's viewed as an extra duty?
coaches need constant learning, provide EFFECTIVE PD and teach WITH teachers. Communicate, support, collaborate!
instead of me teaching 120 Ss.. If I coach 120 Ts who each teach 120 Ss.. Well I teach history so..
How many of what types of coaches is ideal for say, a HS?
Sometimes our perception of our “performance” is distorted until we see ourselves in action.
I actually don't agree w/that--but I'll think more on it. I'm always growing learner, learning, relationship, not show.
The devil is in the details! How it is planned out and how the coach stays connected to students
As always: If we are to better educate our kids, we need first to better educate their educators.
yes, with mix of "outside" plus "inside", Ts can learn/improve more than with either alone.
We co-teach with a SpEd counterpart, I like the idea of a veteran.
BINGO, coach MUST learn as well. Coaches will learn more and share that too.
The video is only one piece of the whole. It’s a tool & provides a better view than a “snapshot” observation.
Agreed. I learn and am inspired! https://t.co/C3yqz8OjYq
As always: If we are to better educate our kids, we need first to better educate their educators.
my district is moving in this direction w video reflection
I've actually videotaped myself, watched, assessed-agree important, but many watch,but don't see the depth
What many think is "good teaching" isn't necessarily good teaching.
Couldn't have said it better. We should all be lifetime learners.
I do! My team was teaching Rdg & Wtg as 2 distinct subjects. Modeled how to create lessons that marry the 2
The value of Ed coaches and mentors is w/out a doubt a benefit for teachers and ultimately the students.
There's a good example of this in the book, Intentional Interruption--great book that relates to this talk
Supporting adult learning teacher coaches can enable a teacher to learn something today and put it in use tomorrow.
Do others watch, as if they are observing in the classroom, in order to learn for themselves?
What about human capital? Where does that fit in?
thus my obsession with PD.. on Thursday
I actually like working w/new T's, we learn from each other.
Please join in 5 MINUTES for (EVERYONE WELCOME). Topic: Setting Classroom Procedures Expectations & Guidelines.
Agree and disagree--greatly depends on who and how it is used.
If there’s no show, there’s no go. Doesn’t have to be flashy, but what tchr does (or doesn’t do) is the “performance.”
Free Tool Helps Estimate CBE-Related Costs, Revenues: The National Center for Higher Education Manage... https://t.co/Y4Abl79153
I think a good coach maximizes human capital.
Especially if they know the coach is available to support them when actually doing it, too.
it's a skill. Good article from Harvard school of Ed on how to reflect
This is how I teach. It usually works. Sometimes it doesn't. I have an idea where to go.
As I wrk w/ Comp Sci tchr,he is revisng/adaptng what I'm giving him 2 fit his tchng style & what his Ss need https://t.co/8m4rOSnvrd
Supporting adult learning teacher coaches can enable a teacher to learn something today and put it in use tomorrow.
There's so much to talk about here-depends on so many factors. I like deep, collaborative, focused development, not drive by.
Sure. That's why I hate concept of the CA teaching video test. Too Heavily weighted video over relationships
Hmm is that knowledge, skills, abilities, ideas, wonderings, creativity, or something else?
Still thinking--so much of teaching has been simplified to the "show" that I'm very sensitive to this.
Since teacher evaluation depends on student performance, it makes sense to coach/mentor them in order to do the same for kids.
/Twitter Tip: Find People in chats who inform and challenge and follow them on Twitter for a continued connection for collaboration.
Best teaching is multi-dimensional, deep, thoughtful,ongoing, student-centered, interactive-much greater than one video.
What did you look for when you watched your own video recording?
I agree. As ESOL, I need to educate my Ts on pedagogy for ELs. Teaching full-time=difficult to do https://t.co/XN77Jxk4N7
As always: If we are to better educate our kids, we need first to better educate their educators.
key is it needs to be about goals Teacher has, then it's simply helping attain THEIR goals
Human capital? It's an HR euphemism for people. As in we're the capital.
No truer words. Many don’t know what good tchng really looks like (& that it can vary based on situation). https://t.co/k5L9wWylur
What many think is "good teaching" isn't necessarily good teaching.
The "deep, collaborative..." is probably very difficult to get to with a coach I would think. How do you get there?
As always, an engaging exchange on tonight. Thank you.
For NBPTS Cert I had to video tape lessons--meaningful experience,part of a deep, thoughtful whole process
Yes. But that lesson that hooks em or gets them chatting on topic is SO HUGE! Like opening scene of movie.
not sure it's simplification but understanding focus is on student engagement and not teacher centered
Our co-teaching model is very fluid--we're always watching and learning from one another, really rich, productive.
"good decoration" is often perceived as "good teaching" https://t.co/zvIEZNKCyc
What many think is "good teaching" isn't necessarily good teaching.
Agreed. We have to consider how our message will be received & critical of same afterwards-thus performance
Teaching coaches support adult learning by being relevant and addressing the personal goals of the teachers they work with.
Who/how are the co-teaching pairs decided?
First time to "stalk" . What's up with tweets that are not relevant? Thanks for informing evening!
I looked at the Ss reactions, listened to their questions, noticed my responses to Ss. Very intimate exp.
First year teacher, first day on the job: got help from colleagues,"I pretended to be a student." https://t.co/RR6KYZhL1q
So, who coaches the coaches?
Great question--also woman are so often judged by looks that there is great sensitivity w/videotaping.
is a tag lots use just to share info. It can be a problem during the chats.
YES! As coach, I have cr8d collaboration opps w/ Ts. Presntd w/ Ts @ conf; wrote WSRA article w/ 2 others. https://t.co/xeWd0qBnNT
Teaching coaches support adult learning by being relevant and addressing the personal goals of the teachers they work with.
Big thanks to the moderating team: & and all who participated in the chat.
That's the key--we really care about our Ss, know them well, that's often missing w/a coach.
