A Statewide Action Research Project: Blended Learning, Collaborative Networks, and Coaching
Abstract: The paper describes the framework that guided the design and organizational structure of a state-wide action research project. In 2013, the Governor’s Teacher Network (GTN) was established by the North Carolina Governor in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). This intent of this initiative, funded by the state’s Race to the Top (RttT) grant, was to provide a statewide platform for teachers to share their best work around instruction and professional development. To achieve this goal of a state-wide action research program, a project that involved participation in an online course, supported by a blended coaching program was developed. This project was a collaborative network of 225 teachers participating in action research We share the design and implementation process of this project, program outcomes, insights, and recommendations that may be used to implement a similar project at a state, or district level.