What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to explore how professional learning communities facilitate leadership development in technical schools.

July 11, 2026Leadership and Policy in Schools0 citations

Enhancing Educational Leadership Development Through Professional Learning Communities: A Case Study in Ecuadorian Technical Schools

Key Points

The aim is to explore how professional learning communities facilitate leadership development in technical schools.
Conducted a multiple case study following two PLCs over two academic years
Utilized non-participant observations, documentary analysis, and reflexive field notes
Analyzed developmental trajectories and contextual factors influencing PLC effectiveness
PLCs enhanced reflective practice, collaborative inquiry, and peer learning among leaders
Alpha PLC shifted toward inquiry-driven and distributed leadership, while Beta remained discussion-oriented
Facilitation and trust-building promoted PLC growth, but leadership turnover and bureaucratic pressures hindered continuity

Abstract

This multiple case study examines how professional learning communities (PLCs) supported leadership development in Ecuadorian technical schools. Two PLCs were followed over two academic years through non-participant observations, documentary analysis, and reflexive field notes. Analysis shows developmental trajectories: Alpha evolved toward inquiry-driven and distributed leadership practices, while Beta remained discussion-oriented. Across both cases, PLCs strengthened reflective practice, collaborative inquiry, and peer learning among educational leaders. Facilitation, trust-building, and protected time supported PLC development, whereas leadership turnover, bureaucratic pressures, and unstable organizational conditions constrained continuity. Findings suggest that PLCs can function as collaborative infrastructures for leadership development in emerging professionalization contexts.

KI fragen

Bookmark

View Full Paper