Discussion 2: Capacity Building Approach

Capacity building is an approach that impacts the organization by developing culture that engages members in deeper learning and problem solving. Through capacity building, a common knowledge and skill base is developed, goals are identified, and the ability to sustain effort over multiple years if established (Fullan & Quinn, 2016). Building capacity is a collective approach that must be embraced by all members of the organization in order to make critical changes that close achievement gaps and enhance learning for all students. For this Discussion, you will use the Teaching-Learning Critical Pathway (TLCP) model to organize actions for teaching and student learning based on the facts presented in the case scenario.

To Prepare:

· Review Capacity Building Approach at every level, Teaching-Learning Critical Pathway (TLCP) model, and the Collaborative Inquiry: Four Key Steps Figure 3.3 from Chapter 3 of your Fullan and Quinn text.

· Review the chapter “Universal Design for Learning” in the Florian text for differentiation strategies to support all learners.

· Review the case scenario video. Pay attention to the current culture of the teachers, skills, pedagogy, and experiences.

An outline of your use of the four key steps of the TLCP model addressing the challenge presented in the case scenario and your new plans for collaboratively working together to build capacity across the school. Your outline should provide an analysis of each section, explaining how you will cultivate a collaborative culture amongst your special education team featured in the case scenario video. Share your learning design focused on the key attributes of collaborative work.

Learning Resources

Required Readings

Fullan, M., & Quinn, J. (2016). Coherence: The right drivers in action for schools, districts, and systems. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin.

• Chapter 3, “Cultivating Collaborative      Cultures” (pp. 47–76)

Florian, L. (Ed.). (2014). The SAGE handbook of special education (2nd ed.). London, England: Sage Publications Ltd.

• Chapter 28, “Universal Design for Learning”      (pp. 475–489)

Boylan, M. (2016).  Deepening system leadership: Teachers leading from below. Educational Management Administration & Leadership, 44(1), 57-72. doi:10.1177/1741143213501314

McLeskey, J., Waldron, N. L., & Redd, L. (2014). A case study of a highly effective, inclusive elementary school. The Journal of Special Education,48(1), 59-70. doi:10.1177/0022466912440455

Kurth, J. A., Lyon, K. J., & Shogren, K. A. (2015). Supporting students with severe disabilities in inclusive schools: A descriptive account from schools implementing inclusive practices. Research and Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities,  DOI: 1540796915594160.

Fullan, M. (2010). Motion leadership: The skinny on becoming change savvy. Retrieved from http://michaelfullan.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/11_TheSkinny_US.compressed.pdf

Required Media

Grand City Community

Laureate Education (Producer) (2016b). Mandate meeting [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Go to the Grand City Community and click into Grand City High School. Review the following scenario: Mandate Meeting.