What is Instructional Rounds?

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Instructional Rounds is a networked approach to learning and leading change.    It's based on the book, "Instructional Rounds in Education" by City, Elmore, Fiarman and Teitel. 

Each round follows a set process:
  1. The host school identifies a problem of practice related to student learning.
  2. Our network members engage in professional learning to explore best practice.
  3. There are 20-minute classroom observations without judgement.
  4. In debrief session, we look for patterns and develop findings based on our evidence.
  5. Our network members propose recommendations for the host school for the next level of work.

THe instructional core

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During Instructional Rounds we focus our observations and recommendations on the Instructional Core.  There are 7 principles of the Instructional Core.
The extract below from the book "Instructional Rounds" introduces you to the first three principles in which Instructional Rounds is based. Click here to download

what makes a good problem of practice?

This booklet summarises the key ideas about how the network should develop each problem of practice. Click here to download. 

learning to see: DESCRIPTIVE OBSERVATIOn

THE NORMS OF OUR NETWORK

  1. We will remain focused on improving student learning and outcomes.
  2. We will ensure that all relationships in our network are respectful and non-judgemental so that we develop a network that is high in trust and support.
  3. We will approach the rounds process with integrity and commitment, each taking responsibility to ensure its success.  We’ll be prepared and use the time wisely.
  4. We will listen actively and be and honest in our communication, challenging the thinking of colleagues to remain focused on improving learning and teaching in our schools.
  5. We will remain committed to sharing and reflecting on both our successes and our failures.
  6. We will maintain confidentiality
Descriptive Observation is one of the key practices of Instructional Rounds. 
There was a quick evaluation of the rounds process after the Term 1, 2021 round. Click on the button text for details.

SOME USEFUL RESOURCES

An overview of Instructional Rounds in a PPT created by Barbara Reynolds for the Dural network. Click here to download
This two-page summary highlights the key ideas and steps in the Instructional Rounds process. Click here to download
Elmorisms. Lessons from Richard Elmore, educational thinker extraordinaire Download here