Empowering Instructional Growth: The Coaching Cycles Framework
by Teaching Lab
The pursuit towards promoting transformative education is an ongoing endeavor — providing the best possible learning experiences for our students is a commitment that the staff at Teaching Lab take on daily. We are always looking for ways to enhance instructional practices and support teachers in their professional growth; after all, continuous professional growth is essential. One powerful tool that can propel our journey towards transformative education is the “Empowering Instructional Growth: The Coaching Cycles Framework,” which can be downloaded below.
The Significance of Coaching Cycles
A coaching cycle is a structured process in which a coach collaborates with a teacher to strengthen their teaching practices, and in turn, enrich students' learning experiences. The Coaching Cycles Framework involves three key stages that empower educators to grow both individually and collectively:
Pre-conference: The coaching cycle begins with a pre-conference, where the teacher and coach come together to co-plan a lesson. During this stage, specific instructional goals are established, highlighting areas for improvement or targeted practice. This collaborative planning not only fosters creativity but also cultivates a sense of shared responsibility in the learning process.
Observation: In the next stage, the coach may choose to co-teach the lesson alongside the teacher or observe the class while meticulously recording low-inference notes or gathering other forms of evidence from the classroom. This observational process allows for a comprehensive understanding of the teaching environment, laying the groundwork for meaningful feedback.
Debrief Conversation: Following the lesson, the coach organizes a deliberate debriefing session with the teacher. During this conversation, both strengths and areas for improvement are identified in relation to the chosen focus area and the curriculum. Through open dialogue, the next steps for professional growth are established, ensuring a continuous cycle of learning and improvement.
Download the Guide Now
The “Empowering Instructional Growth: The Coaching Cycles Framework” provides a structured pathway for coaches and teachers to collaborate effectively, creating an environment that fosters instructional effectiveness, and ultimately, student success. By employing this template, educators can capture notes and evidence throughout the coaching process, ensuring a systematic approach to ongoing development.
