Problem Solved: Middle School Math Instruction Gets a Boost from a Flexible Model for Learning

Education researchers frequently seek out districts, schools, and teachers as partners for professional learning projects. They share their ambitious vision--a new model of professional learning that will support an empowered community, instructional improvement, and student achievement. The authors, along with other members of their research team, designed and piloted a model of mathematics professional development called the problem-solving cycle. At its core, the problem-solving cycle provides a focus and structure to school-based professional development, such as professional learning communities. Beginning in fall 2008, researchers partnered with administrators in the Cherry Creek School District in Centennial, Colo., to implement the problem-solving cycle in the district's middle schools. Results of the implementation of the problem-solving cycle are discussed.