Communities of Practice

A Community of Practice (CoP) is a group of people who are passionate about a specific topic or interest - they interact with each other and devise ways to do what they are passionate about in a BETTER way.  What a marvelous collaboration of ideas, thoughts, and shared investment in what is important to each other.  I feel very blessed to be a part of a CoP in Adult Ed.  I have never been a part of a CoP that has been so passionate about what they do.  This CoP extends statewide as I have had the opportunity to meet, lobby, share great ideas, have interactions and collaborations with those who foster a similar passion. 

Community:  Relationships and a sense of belonging - there is a huge sense of belonging in the CoP of Adult Ed.  The promise of new opportunities and a longing for others to finally see the value of the work the CoP does is the glue that keeps us together.  It seems to be a common thread that each member of the community truly feels is hugely important.  We believe in the practice of helping people better their lives.  We believe it is the most important work in the world.  We see those struggling to survive - many of which have escaped their native countries in hopes of building a better life and amidst these struggles, still commit to attend school.  No matter our disagreements this shared community sense of belonging is the priority in this CoP.      

Domain: Shared Inquiry - are we all seeking answers to the same questions?  How does the larger organization fit into the particular domain?  Is there a leader facilitating the growth of this work?  Is there enough time?  Is there a system already established in this domain?  Is it organic and does it foster the trust of all to participate in the domain?  These are all challenges that educational leaders struggle with.  The work cannot happen if it is a directive, rather there must be support, guidance, and compassion.    

Practice:  Body of knowledge - with so much theory surrounding education, the Adult Ed PoC seems to be all about practicalities.  There is very little "fluff" surrounding the mission, priorities, and the goals of an effective Adult Ed program.  It is simple; we all believe that teaching English speaking skills to our most vulnerable population in our society is INVALUABLE.  Additionally, we believe that teaching Career Technical Education to people who are displaced workers, need a change in their life, or who are attempting to start a career in something that will put food on the table, pay the bills and provide a better way of life,is the practical aspect of what brings us together. Our practice gives us our sense of community. 

A CoP is about the PARTICIPANTS not the YOU!  I love this!  Anyone involved in educational leadership had better understand that CoP's are larger than the ideas of one person - bigger than organization's employees - it is about the students, the growth, the development, and the participant's success.  It is the leader's job to ensure that this environment is nurtured, tended too and embraced with very gentle hands. 

I really see successful CoP's as the result of intuitive and sharp leadership.  Creating this space is touchy and extremely challenging.  There are so many constraints involved in educational leadership and understanding small nuances such as timing is crucial.  Knowing when and how to act with strategy in mind is a hugely underestimated skill. 

 My PLN right now is an excellent CoP platform.  I am able to collaborate in my different forms via email, social media, Twitter, Facebook, G-Drive, etc.  I feel part of a true community.