How to Put the Consultant to Work in Consulting Teaching

Abstract

Three models, or approaches to consulting with teachers, are described in this article. In the “purchase” model, the classroom teacher orders a service which is delivered by the consulting professional. The doctor-patient model involves the consultant providing a diagnosis and a prescription for the problem experienced by the teacher. Both of these approaches present the consultant as a person whose expertise is necessary to solve a problem. On the other hand, the process consultation model emphasizes helping the teacher solve his or her own problems. General skill areas necessary for effective process consultation are discussed.