A Qualitative/Mixed Methods Case Study and Analysis of Teacher’s Perceptions of Various Dimensions of Learning Communities and their Impact on the Development of a Learning Culture

In a world that is constantly changing, educators have been required to adapt to the needs of the students and communities for which they serve in order to positively impact student achievement (Schmoker, 2004). Change can bring about a sense of uncertainty (Fullan, 2001; Senge, 2008). In light of this uncertainty, capacity must be built in school systems to deal with change and as a result, people must think and work differently. One way to accomplish capacity building to deal with change is through the development of professional learning communities, relying on the interdependence of others to achieve the goals of the organization. The creation of an environment that provides educational professionals with the chance to grow as leaders and learners is important for the sustainability of knowledge in these changing times. Taking an epistemological stance, through a qualitative/ mixed methods instrumental case study approach, the researcher intends to study the behaviors, attitudes and interactions of six professional educators working in a new school building in a suburban school in south central Pennsylvania. Through this study, this research will document the evolution of an existing learning community among distinctly different faculty members who, through a district construction project, come together to work in a new building. The researcher is interested in understanding the characteristics that shape the teaching relationships and instructional practice of those who are members of the learning community. Through the investigation of learning communities; trust, social capital and collaborative relationships; and leadership, the researcher will document how participants engage in opportunities to share their knowledge and understanding with others as well as contribute to and enhance their own learning.Ed.D., Educational Leadership and Management -- Drexel University, 201