Having read the materials this week I see the value that CoPs and PLCs hold for someone in an educational field, new and seasoned alike. I learned that Community of Practice is where a group of people with similar interests in a work place will group together and share the ideas and knowledge that they have on that particular topic. I also learned that a Personal Learning Community are used in educational system. A leader will choose a group of people to come together and problem solve, discuss topics, share knowledge and ideas. As Bouchard states, both CoPs and PLCs are a group of people coming together, to learn from one another and share what they know. (Bouchard, 2012)
In a school setting the principal or department head builds a team of five or six teachers that are arranged by grade level or content area, and then a leader is chosen. (Adams, 2009) By participating in this group the sharing of information takes place. According to Cranston, relational trust fosters a sense of comfort that allows teachers to open up and share, which in turn leads them to increased self assessment which in turn promotes professional growth. (Cranston, 2011 pg.65) With information being shared, the teacher can take the dynamics they learned and apply them in their classroom.
My personal experience with PLCs and CoPs has been touched upon enough that I can see the value that it holds . Not only am I participating in a CoP being an online student , but within my educational context. Five of us gather together once a month, if not more depending on needs and we share our knowledge, ideas , and tips with one another. I find them to be quite helpful because things that I thought that I was struggling with or happening with my students I realize that I am not alone. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when creating or participating in a PLC.