The teachers were aware that their school district is continually moving in a
direction to improve and reform their school program, as noted by participation in various
professional development initiatives. Teachers were candid and supportive of their school
in their responses regarding the culture of the school’s expectations. During the interview
process, the researcher focused on the school vision of high standards and its impact on
classroom instruction. Teacher 3 (T3) positively stated:
Our school’s vision would be to develop students toward
their maximum potential especially now in the 21 st century workplace.
This includes being a team player and leadership…but definitely
using cooperative learning as well as implementing technology skills.
T3’s response suggested that cooperative learning in the classroom aligns with the 21 st
century education. Although peer interaction is a necessary part of student engagement,