LITERACY COACHING: Developing Effective Teachers Through Instructional Dialogue

Childhood Education, Fall 2007 by Lasky, Cynthia J

LITERACY COACHING: Developing Effective Teachers Through Instructional Dialogue. Marilyn Duncan. Katonah, NY: Richard C. Owen Publishers, 2006. 100 pp. Paperback, $24.95. This book discusses professional development that focuses on "improving student achievement by improving the effectiveness of classroom practice." MarilynDuncanexplores the concept of instructional dialogue and shows this process in action. Not to be described as a handbook, this is a resource and a guide, for developing teachers and professional educators (coaches), on how to learn more effectively when learning together. Examples of professional conversations between teachers and coaches guide the teacher toward new learning and practices.

After the coach observes the teacher, takes notes, and prepares for the dialogue, she meets with the teacher to reflect on the lesson. Duncan provides examples of structured dialogue, and illustrates the development of an action plan, which then becomes "job embedded" professional development.

The teacher development cycle described in Chapter 5 clearly addresses implementing a process for instructional dialogue, detailing the roles of the teacher and coach and giving vivid examples. Feedback provides opportunities for teacher reflection, along with support from the coach. The accompanying DVD focuses on instructional dialogue between a teacher and coach.

Marilyn Duncan has been a teacher for over 30 years. She has truly worked in the classroom with children and as a teacher developer. This experience allows the reader to understand that her methods are supported by experience in the classroom. Reviewed by Cynthia J. Lasky, Ed.D., Assistant Professor at Barry University, Miami Shores, FL

Reviewed by Cynthia J. Lasky, Ed.D., Assistant Professor at Barry University, Miami Shores, FL