Unlocking Group Potential to Improve Schools

Foreword Preface Acknowledgments About the Authors Introduction I. Getting Work Done 1. Building Effective Groups 2. Understanding Group Roles 3. Examining Decision Making 4. Creating Focused Agendas II. Developing Collaborative Communities 5. Forming Smarter Groups 6. Learning the Way Groups Talk 7. Challenging Mental Models 8. Working With Conflict III. Developing a Sense of Community 9. Becoming a Self-Directed Group 10. Enhancing Energy Sources IV. Developing Facilitation Skills 11. Developing Facilitation Skills 12. Learning the Language of Facilitation 13. Intervening Successfully 14. Setting up the Room Conclusion Appendix A: Large Group Room Configurations Appendix B: Sample Inventory Appendix C: Seven Norms of Collaboration: A Supporting Toolkit Index

"This is an easy to read book that includes research-supported strategies and tips to help educators use precious collaborative time to their best advantage." -- Dr. Kathy Grover, Assistant Superintendent "An informative read for school administrators. I recommend this book for anyone who organizes or facilitates a group of people in decision making." -- Pamela Maxwell, Principal "The authors provide teachers and leaders with the tools they need to make teacher group work effective and productive." -- Dr. Scott Hollinger, Executive Coach "The authors synthesize all the best research as well as extensive experience into a practical, easily understood and comprehensive guide for working effectively with groups. This book helps administrators to achieve maximum group participation and cohesion while maintaining the integrity of all involved." -- Dr. Roberta E. Glaser, (Ret.) Assistant Superintendent "This book provides the insights, conceptual foundation, precise language, and explicit processes about how groups work. The authors have an elegant and expanding understanding of the gestalt of the power, purpose, and energy of group work." -- Dr. Douglas Gordon Hesbol, School District Administrator "Those familiar with the theory of adaptive school should read this book. It provides a practical and effective approach to the development of group culture and collaborative groups." -- Dr. Roberto Pamas, Principal "Dr. Garmston's work provides potent tools that leaders in our local district use every day to propel student achievement forward. This book is theoretically sound and reality-based regarding the needs of schools and their leaders. This kind of work makes systems adaptive and ready to move students, parents, and leaders into the next era of learning and achievement." -- Roberto Antonio Martinez, Superintendent