Teacher Leadership

What is Teacher Leadership?

Teacher leaders differ from traditional teachers in a number of ways. At the most fundamental level, the beliefs and teaching philosophies of the educator are more likely to reflect a constructivist approach than that of general teachers. Teacher leaders are more likely to see “good teaching in terms of facilitating student inquiry,” focus on “student engagement” and the “meaningfulness” of the content being taught.

In other areas of their practice, another difference between the two categories of teachers is the additional professional engagement required of leaders across many domains. Outside of their classroom, teacher leaders also display a consistent dedication to participating in activities within their school, professional organizations and the profession generally. Teacher leaders “view their responsibilities as extending beyond classroom teaching” and as an integral aspect of their work. These teachers connect with other teachers both “locally and at a distance” in order to share, collaborate and stay up-to-date with the latest ideas and innovations. Indeed, a key aspect of teacher leadership is the ability to reflect upon their practice and to be continuously learning and changing their practice in order to stay current. Incorporating new ideas, tools and technologies into their classroom is a common trait of teacher leaders.

Taking on these additional leadership roles often means these teachers are recognized by their peers as displaying the characteristics of a leader in their community. They are often respected by their colleagues and thus they have the capacity to “influence others’ practices” in order to assist them. Teacher leaders must be present in their communities in order to be valued.

How do you demonstrate Teacher Leadership?

One of the most important things that a teacher can do to demonstrate leadership is to continue to be curious and interested in innovative methods and applying new strategies, tools and technologies in the classroom. Continually learning is essential to keeping up with the constantly changing ideas and tools that are available to educators.

Taking an active role in different learning communities is also highly important. In order to be valued and respected, teachers must be visible and connected to the community and new ideas. By sharing, contributing and responding to different educators, teacher leaders will be better able to influence change and promote growth.

As the article suggests, these educators will need to find “[a] supportive principal and colleagues, time for collaborative work, resources, and opportunities for professional development.” No leader is an island, and therefore cannot take on these additional responsibilities unless they are located in the right community.



Based on the article:
CHARACTERISTICS OF TEACHER LEADERS FOR INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
By Margaret Riel and Henry Jay Becker