Working Together to Develop Positive Practices in a Co-Instructional Teaching Environment This orientation session will help educators committed to collaborative practice get started with a new and effective resource developed by the TCDSB Speech and Language Department. New New Resource for Educator Teams

Why?

In the Toronto Catholic District School Board, professionals from a variety of backgrounds often work together on educator teams. Although highly beneficial, this type of collaborative instructional practice can present some challenges to the professionals who work to develop these collaborative partnerships. This resource tool is for educator teams who are committed to collaborative practice but feel the need for resources to support the development of solid working relationships.

What?

This resource tool is comprised of three videos that include demonstrations of educational teams in action, strategies, and tools for self- and shared reflection.

What? This resource tool is comprised of three videos that include demonstrations of educational teams in action, strategies, and tools for self- and shared reflection.

What? Video Part 1: Various Educator Teams Approaches to Co-instruction

What? Video Part 2: Different Communication Styles Tips for Effective Communication Problem Resolution Strategies

What? Video Part 3: Developing Collaborative Professional Relationships ‘Dos’ of Collaborating in the Classroom

What? The tool also includes a comprehensive workbook

What? The tool also includes a comprehensive workbook that includes additional resources

What? The tool also includes a comprehensive workbook that includes additional resources and activities for self- and shared reflection.

Who?

This resource tool is intended to support all educator teams engaged in co-instructional relationships. These teams may have a long-term agenda for working together (e.g., an entire academic year) or a short-team agenda (e.g., completing a unit together).

How?

Videos can be viewed by each team at their convenience. The instructions to complete the self- directed reflection activities are simple and easy to follow. Alternatively, the videos could be included as part of a PD session and/or staff meeting. This format will provide the teams with opportunities for some group and pair discussions resulting in a more interactive session. Speech and Language department staff are available to provide you with a short introduction at a staff meeting to facilitate the use of this resource.

When?

Ideally, both members of the team will view each video sequentially and at regular intervals throughout the year. By doing this, educators will create regular opportunities to analyze and monitor their collaborative practices.

Where?

The videos and the workbook are available from the Speech and Language department. If interested, please contact your school Speech-Language Pathologist for more details.

Questions?

Contact the TCDSB Speech and Language Department at , ext