Teaching in a secondary school in Glen Innes it has become clear to me that collaboration among teachers is essential and can improve the educational experience for students.
Collaboration does not need to be intimidating. Many believe that it can add to work load, and given how time poor teachers are, it can be resisted. However, the exchange of ideas, resources, and teaching strategies creates a dynamic learning environment that transcends individual classrooms. It also can empower students to see learning across different areas. This not only strengthens their subject knowledge but also promotes a culture of continuous learning, which is essential in the ever-evolving field of education.
As teachers work together, they leverage their collective expertise to enhance curriculum design, instructional methods, and student support mechanisms.
Traditionally, teachers often worked in isolation within the confines of their classrooms. It is this silo approach to teaching and learning that many students struggle with. Recently I asked a year 9 class their thoughts. Comments included “I think having a teacher works together will be more consistent because I will learn more each day”. One student even noted that “I like it when I feel that my teachers are all working together to make my learning more understandable and consistent.
While collaboration offers numerous benefits, it is not without its challenges. Time constraints, differing teaching styles, and logistical issues can hinder collaborative efforts. My advice is to start small, and informally. Even working with one other subject - English and Social Studies for instance, can be a good place to start.
