Using “Plan, Do, Study, Act” to Clarify the Mission

Plan, Do, Study, and Act (PDSA) is a structured process for continuous improvement. During the PLAN phase the Instructional Coach together with the New Educator identifies the characteristics of a highly effective teacher. These characteristics represent the “Desired State”, a goal that all teachers should be working toward.

After the characteristics of the “Desired State” are identified, the Instructional Coach (IC) converts those ideas into “Measurable Objectives.” (See article: Writing Measurable Objectives) The Instructional Coach uses the objectives to select the appropriate tool(s), such as Verbatim, Domain 2, lesson plans, student work, video, etc., to measure the teaching behaviors of the New Educator. Observing and collecting baseline data give the Instructional Coach information about the new educator’s “Current Reality.”

The “Current Reality” is a description of the new educator’s performance before support is provided. As soon as the “Current Reality” is determined the Instructional Coach collaborates with the New Educator to decide on the interventions that would be most beneficial in providing opportunities for professional growth.

Tips for the Planning Process:
• Align actions towards the Desired State
• Fix process, do not blame
• Use data and data narrowing tools to identify Current Reality
• Build a professional relationship based on commitment, not compliance.

In the next issue we will look at the second step (DO) in the Continuous Improvement Cycle.

Source: Dr. Doug Miller. NESS Program Facilitator