Coaching Teachers: Promoting Changes that Stick

Key Beliefs
Lectures during Module One will introduce participants to the Match Teacher Residency's key beliefs around teacher coaching. We will discuss the key variables involved in structuring "effective" coaching that results in lasting changes in teacher practice and ultimately more classroom learning. We recommend approaching material by first watching lecture videos and then doing to associated reading. Afterwards, the quiz is a summative assessment that allows you to demonstrate mastery of Module One material.

Mindset
Lectures during the Module 2 will introduce students to the first variable in our Effective Coaching Formula, the Fixed Mindset Tax. We draw heavily on the work of psychologist Carol Dweck to frame the extent to which a teacher's mindset can greatly influence the effectiveness of a coaching intervention. Module 2 will offer strategies for overcoming common behaviors associated with fixed mindset, the belief that one cannot improve at a particular skill. We will also demonstrate how combating these behaviors could also help you promote Growth Mindset, the attitude of optimism and investment in improving.

Instructional Vision
Module 3 explains the second variable in our formula, the Clarity of Instructional Vision -- the extent to which coach and teacher agree on and can communicate effectively about what constitutes excellent instruction. This variable is key in developing common language, goal setting, and maintaining urgency in the coaching context. While there are numerous philosophies for what excellent instruction looks like, this week will also introduce participants to the Match Teacher Residency's "student-facing" vision for optimal classroom culture. Before watching "The Kraken," click to the readings page to download a PDF of our rubric as a viewing guide.

Feedback
Module 4 lectures dive deep on the final variable in our formula, Quality of Feedback. During this module, participants will learn how to structure a highly effective coaching meeting, based on the protocol used by instructional coaches at the Match Teacher Residency. Before watching the second video this week, pause to download our Coaching Session template from the readings page. You can use it as a viewing guide while you watch "The Coaching Session."

Annotation Assignment
Final exam time! You've learned a lot about how to facilitate effective teacher coaching, and now it's time to show what you know. You can find the rubric for the assignment on the readings page. When you've familiarized yourself with the parameters of the assignment, click on this week's lecture video, which you will use to complete the assignment.