FW: [Ailist] AI in K-8 charter schools

[Ray Calabrese]

Bettina,

My doctoral students and I have used appreciative inquiry as a theoretical research perspective and methodology in our work in middle schools. The first abstract (with citation) represents our published work that focused on teachers and at-risk students; the second abstract represents the paper my students and I will present at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association in New York 2008. 

Best wishes,

Ray

Abstract 1:

Citation: Calabrese, R., Sheppard, D., Hummel, C., Laramore, C., & Nance, E. (2006). Trapped by central administration’s focus on NCLB: Teachers struggling with professional development in an urban middle school [Electronic Version]. Journal of Research for Educational Leaders, 3 (2), from http://www.education.uiowa.edu/jrel/spring06/spring06_number1.htm


Abstract

Purpose - This field-based research study used a qualitative embedded case study of a middle and high school informed by an appreciative inquiry theoretical research perspective to identify a positive core of teacher and administrator experiences related to at-risk students. At-risk students are those who under-perform in mandated academic assessments as well as school-related academic achievement. Social capital and appreciative inquiry served as theoretical perspectives. 
Design/methodology/approach - Focus groups, semi-structured interviews, and an online survey were the primary data-gathering methods. 
Findings - Three findings illustrated the gap between present practice and the ideal state. The research team concluded that there was a foundation of positive core experiences from which to build on the espoused theory of caring professed by teachers and administrators. 
Originality/value - The study’s results can further teachers’ and administrators’ understanding of their problem-based language that emphasizes the deficits of at-risk students and their parents.

Abstract 2:

Title: An Appreciative Inquiry 4-D Cycle in a Non AYP Middle School: Empowerment of 8th-grade Teachers

Abstract

A qualitative case study using an Appreciate Inquiry (AI) methodology was used in a collaborative research partnership with a Midwestern rural school district to work with an 8th-grade team of teachers to improve instruction in a non Adequate Yearly Progress, low socioeconomic status middle school. Progressive AI Meetings were conducted over the course of eight months with a six-member (four women and two men) 8th-grade teacher team. Data were collected through semi-structured paired interviews, whole group discussions, shared written activities, narrative group story, extensive researcher field notes, and activities related to enhance team members’ dialogue over an eight month period. The data revealed the importance of using an AI methodology when whole groups want to change, yet, seem mired in traditional behavioral patterns reinforced by a stagnant organizational culture. Progressive AI Meetings were conducted with the 8th-grade team where the AI 4-D Cycle process became the catalyst for team change. Follow-up interviews with the teacher team indicated their sustained excitement with the AI-4 D Cycle and provided feedback for future Progressive AI Meetings.

Dr. Raymond L. Calabrese
Professor 
Educational Leadership
105G Hubbard Hall
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS 67260-0142
316-978-5329


-----Original Message-----
From: ailist-bounces at lists.business.utah.edu [mailto:ailist-bounces at lists.business.utah.edu] On Behalf Of bettinamihai at triuned.com
Sent: Thursday, December 13, 2007 12:01 PM
To: ailist at lists.business.utah.edu
Subject: [Ailist] AI in K-8 charter schools

I wanted to thank you for the many resources provided on this list serve. I am new to AI and am an MSOD student at Pepperdine. I am beginning an AI project in a K-8 charter school in California and am wondering if anyone has any experience in this area or suggestions on research done regarding AI in elementary/middle schools. 

Thanks for the input,

Bettina Mihai
President
Triune Consulting : Optimizing Potential through Organization Development
1-408-425-7429
www.triuned.com


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