Boundless Readers 5153 North Clark Street, Suite 206 Chicago, IL 60640 p. 773.989.8582 e. info@boundlessreaders.org
© 2009 Boundless Readers
Study Groups
In recognition of this learning, Boundless Readers facilitates teacher-led, school-based teacher teams known as study groups. Boundless Readers typically supports about 50 study groups annually. In these study groups, teachers have an on-going system for discussion, reflection, and analysis of implementation. We provide groups with professional books, leadership coaching and training, assistance with goal setting, and portfolio development.
Study groups meet monthly throughout the school year. Groups read a professional text (selected by the group and purchased by Boundless Readers) and discuss how to transfer new ideas and practices into their classrooms. There are opportunities to reflect on new learning and the successes and challenges of changing teaching practices. Many study groups examine student work, develop curricula and tools, and conduct peer observations to further their own professional learning.
Education research clearly indicates that curriculum reform fails unless teachers are involved in defining their own problems, creating knowledge, and transforming themselves to help bring about educational change. Instead of prescriptive mandates or packaged programs, teachers need time to work with each other to think, analyze, and create conditions for change in their specific circumstances and in ways that fit their own needs and those of their students.
