Collaborative Coaching and Learning Science (CCLS)

This chapter outlines the Collaborative Coaching and Learning Science (CCLS) model, emphasizing the vertical (V-CCLS) and horizontal (H-CCLS) articulation of science teaching practices across different grade levels. The chapter highlights the unique structure of the Science Education Fellowship (SEF) program, where teachers from elementary, middle, and high schools work together in cross-district groups to share and critique classroom lessons, focusing on specific content areas and pedagogical approaches informed by research articles. The V-CCLS process involves teachers from different grade bands collaborating to understand the progression of scientific concepts across K-12 education. Teams select a common content topic and pedagogical method, record and share lesson videos, and provide structured feedback using a tuning protocol. This approach helps teachers appreciate the continuity of science education and improve their instructional practices through peer feedback. The second half of the year transitions to the H-CCLS, where teachers within the same grade band focus on a single Science and Engineering Practice (SEP) and an associated research-based teaching method. This deep dive into specific practices allows teachers to refine their instructional strategies and better understand the complexities of implementing SEPs in their classrooms. The chapter emphasizes the importance of building a culture of trust and respect within teams, the use of structured observation and feedback cycles, and the creation of final presentations to share findings and reflections.