It's collaboration, collaboration is cool

We investigated how schools formally collaborate.  I found a form from my ISP creator, Alice Yucht.  Again, I liked it because it was simple to follow, was explicit about duties, and included timelines and student responsibilites.  I didn't like that it was a form that had to be written on as it was an Adobe file.  Even a Word file could at least be completed on the computer and printed.  I also don't think the fields allowed for enough room.  There were many great forms

WJHS Media Center / Teacher Collaboration Form (I liked that it was online):  https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dG1LYmNsVkFmUVNoZ296eTgxcEhfa2c6MQ

Iowa City Planner - liked the layout.

There are so many ways to start the conversation.  A form would make sure that everyone is on the same page.


As I was reading collaborative articles, it seems important that there be buy-in from the top down.  If not, it can only be implemented slowly, with enthusiasm.  Results will be key!

We also discussed how to motivate students, and it seems it is another form of collaboration - this time with the student.  Make the project interesting for them and they will come.  This is accomplished through student choice, using cool presentation mediums, having the project directly impact their lives, or, all of the above.