Contemporary Issues In Education Research
–
Second Quarter 2012
Volume 5, Number 2
© 2012
The Clute Institute
71
Practices And Value Of A Professional
Learning Community In Higher Education
Ann T. Hilliard
, Bowie State University, USA
ABSTRACT
It is important for leadership teams and faculty members in higher education to create an
atmosphere of trust as new and
improved ideas are addressed in a professional learning
community setting. Prior to the past ten years, many faculty members at the university have been
accustomed to working somewhat independently in their own discipline. However, today, more
university
leaders and faculty members are reaching out to one another to discuss issues or
concerns within the organization. For the purpose of this research, emphasis will be placed on
definition of a professional learning community, characteristics of a professi
onal learning
community, ways to improve teaching and learning, models of collaborative learning,
effectiveness of professional learning communities and evaluating a professional learning
community