SPED 417

True or False Professionals must share all goals in order to collaborate.

False. not ALL goals

Define collaboration

Interpersonal collaboration is a style for direct interaction between at least two coequal parties voluntarily engaged in shared decision making as they work towards a common goal

Describe several challenges that may arise as educators increase their collaborative activities in schools

-A school structure that fosters professional isolation (NOT GOOD) -Professional socialization that fosters a norm of isolation (Believing that teachers working alone is your role) -power in the relationship (relationships should be based on parity and each persons powers should balance out the other) -pragmatic issues: issues with logistics and reality (SPED teachers being spread out so much and expected to be in so many places)

Describe a framework for studying collaboration

-Personal commitment: beliefs about working with others and learning from one another -communication skills: building blocks of collaborative interactions -interaction processes: most common example is problem solving -programs or services: teams, consultation, and co-teaching are interactive processes used to design and deliver student services -context: environment where collaboration takes place

Describe the place of collaboration within contemporary schools

-School collaboration: RTI model means intervention earlier and working together sooner to figure out what services are needed University-school partnerships, Peer collaboration, school leadership teams -Special Education collaboration: started with special education and IEPs

Outline the importance of collaboration from a broad societal perspective

-Societal trends: collaboration is needed more today in the everyday workplace than it used to

What are the critical characteristics of collaboration?

-Voluntary nature (collaboration works when the two want to collaborate) -Parity among participants -Mutual goals -Shared responsibility for participation -Shared responsibility for decision making -Shared resources -Shared accountability for outcomes

What are four ways to facilitate effective work with diverse families?

1. Know the correct last name of parent. 2. Avoid language that implies that "family" refers to traditional families. 3. Offer information on strengths and abilities of children. 4. Avoid making requests that place parents in uncomfortable positions (time and money).

Each of the following is a reason why collaboration is integral to today's schools EXCEPT a. Many school professionals have increased responsibilities that are more realistically addressed together. b. The influence of the No Child Left Behind Act. c. Collaborative practices are always the most appropriate form of problem solving. d. The continued trend toward inclusive practices.

C. Collaborative practices are always the most appropriate form of problem solving.

Collaboration CANNOT occur if a. One or more individuals are perceived to have significantly greater decision-making power regarding the activity. b. Collaboration is mandated. c. Resources are limited. d. All participants are responsible for the outcome.

a. One or more individuals are perceived to have significantly greater decision-making power regarding the activity.