Methodology

During the course of two 5-week coaching cycles, I will work with 5 teachers around implementing number talks. Our work may include, but will not be limited to, co-planning, co-teaching, modeling, observation, shared reads, and video analysis. This work will be the basis for my data collection.

Throughout the coaching process I will keep a journal that will include my planning notes, notes from observations and notes from debrief conversations. In addition to my journal I will be blogging my research. This is where I will be reflective of my work in relation to my question. I will use my journals as a reference as I blog. My intention is to post at least two blogs a week. My guiding questions for those reflections are:

·         How has coaching teachers in implementing number talks provided momentum for my work?

·         How has coaching around number talks helped me understand my role as a coach?

·         What evidence do I have that this work informed the teacher’s practice and understanding of meaningful math instruction?

I believe journaling and blogging are essential aspects of my action research. My question is focused on how this work influences me and my work as a coach. As such, I must include self-reflection in my process.   

Lastly, I will ask teachers two reflective questions at the end of each coaching cycle.

·         Has focusing on number talks brought any new questions to your mind about your role as a math leaner and teacher? What are they?

·         Has focusing on number talks helped you solidify the ways your math coach can best support you? What are those ways?

I am interested in the impact this work has on a teacher’s perspective of the coaching process, coach-teacher relationship and teacher’s role in meaningful math instruction. I will journal and blog about teacher responses.