Professional Learning Communities and School Culture: A Case of Study in District-Wide Implementation of a PLC

Authors

Jaime Lopez, University of Texas at Brownsville

Date of Award

6-2015

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Curriculum & Instruction

First Advisor

Dr. Jesus (Chuey) Abrego

Second Advisor

Dr. Alma D. Rodriguez

Third Advisor

Dr. Javier Cavazos Vela

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore what influence a school district’s transformation to a PLC had on culture. In particular, the study examined what dimensions of a PLC are evident, how the district approached the change process, and its influence on student achievement. The methodology employed in this study is a Type 2 single-case study. Data regarding this district’s implementation of a PLC, and its influence on school culture was gathered via sources of evidence common in case study research; survey, documents, archival records, direct observations, and interviews. In summary, the findings suggest the following; (1) PLC work influenced the development of Hord’s 5 dimensions of a PLC to varying degrees; (2) the district is at the implementation phase of the change process; (3) the superintendent played a key role in PLC implementation through his understanding and use of a change model; and (4) archival data noted changes in student achievement scores throughout PLC implementation. Overall, the findings suggest that the implementation of structural changes influenced the development of a culture of learning and collaboration in the district.

Comments

Copyright 2015 Jaime Lopez. All Rights Reserved.

Granting Institution

University of Texas Brownsville