Join the iTeach #CoachingCollab!

Do you have a desire to grow professionally in an environment that is personalized for your learning needs? Do you want to grow your professional learning network? If so the #CoachingCollab is a great opportunity for you!

Offered through a joint partnership between the Kennesaw State University Instructional Technology Department and iTeach, the #CoachingCollab is a group of like-minded individuals in Educational Technology integration, instruction, and implementation. iTeach at Kennesaw State University is focused on providing the most current and relevant professional development to teachers, media specialists, and administrators in the form of individualized coaching and modeling, consulting, and evaluation services. The mission of the organization is to transform teaching and learning through future-ready experiences.

The #CoachingCollab experience equips coaches to transform teaching and learning in schools they support. Fellows in the collaborative have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of effective coaching practices as they partake in professional learning throughout the year. This community of coaches receives support through:

• Participation in online professional development with Instructional Technology Coaches from iTeach. Professional development courses include topics on:

  • Coaching Relationships

  • Flipped Professional Development

  • Coaching 101

  • Creating Purposeful Professional Development

  • Creating a Collaborative Vision

• Access to customized learning objects and monthly coaching resources

There is a definite need for professional development for instructional coaches. According to a case study conducted by Gallucci et al. (2010), instructional coaches must have professional learning opportunities within different settings and domains to be successful. While many coaches learn the necessary skills they need while on the job, they need to continue regular engagement in professional learning opportunities to grow their skill sets throughout the year. Some studies reveal that coaches have “to make sense of new ideas about instruction prior to, and sometimes in the context of, exploring them with other teachers (Boatright et al., 2010).

The #CoachingCollab aims to provide individuals in Educational Technology integration with continual and ongoing professional development so they are not simply learning as they go. According to Devine, Houssemand, & Meyers (2013), coaches require extensive training and ongoing continuous development (as cited by Fullen & Knight, 2011). Therefore, it is essential for coaches to receive ongoing meaningful professional development that is personalized for their schools growing demands. The #CoachingCollab fulfills this need by providing educators with in-depth online learning cycles on coaching best practices.

The collaborative also encourages coaches to continue their learning through advanced degree programs through the Kennesaw State University Instructional Technology Department. A list of the various programs can be found on the ITEC webpage. In addition, fellows are encouraged to present at local and national conferences sharing their coaching expertise and knowledge.

As the #CoachingCollab continues into year two, KSU iTeach can’t help but to reflect on the success of the partnership. During 2019, over 130 coaching fellows participated and earned micro-credentials! Overwhelmingly, we have heard from leaders, coaches, and teachers stating that they want MORE! We would love for others to join this free partnership. If you would like to learn more, please visit the #CoachingCollab website.