Strategic accountability is key to making PLCs effective

Abstract

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are often criticized for failing to focus on real problems of teaching and learning and for failing to deliver improvement. That’s where accountability comes into play. Strategic accountability distinguishes PLCs that are effective from those that are not. Everyone knows what accountability is, but the strategy used in creating accountability for PLCs is a highly nuanced approach to professional learning leading to action that makes a difference for student learning. Accountability can be both informal and formal. True accountability means transparency about what is going on in PLCs and involves agreements and understandings between participants about responsibilities.