In this context, a Professional Learning Community (PLC) is a collaborative, peer-led group for faculty to engage in sustained, in-depth professional development.

• A PLC is a supportive, faculty-driven space where participants learn from one another rather than from a single expert. This is not a “sit and get” workshop or class.

• The group forms around a specific shared challenge, such as integrating AI or improving student engagement.

• It is an ongoing, community-based effort, not a one-time workshop, that builds trust and allows for iterative learning.

• The PLC model is action-oriented and results in a tangible product that extends the group's learning to a wider audience.

Online discussion and book-club format. Each group will have a book for each semester. Facilatitors and the groups will also curate additional digital content (books, podcasts, videos, websites, etc.) to do further reading and exploration on the topic.

Benefits for Faculty/Staff:

• Individual and group technical and pedagogical support and training
  
  
• Interaction with national and international leaders in the field of education
  
  
• Opportunity to experiment among supportive colleagues
  
  
• Connected conversation across disciplines about creating meaningful learning experiences
  
  
• Paid registration for Online Learning Consortium (OLC) online workshop (and ability to earn a certificate for course completion)


• Completers will receive a certificate, a recognition email sent to their supervisor and dean, and will be recognized at the Faculty and Associates program.


• Receive 1-2 books on the topic to keep.


• Welcome luncheon

Expectations:

• Engage and actively participate in biweekly Teams/virtual meetings per semester (or additional as needed for completion of project)
  
  
• Participate in group attendance and collaboration at a conference in the spring semester
  
  
• Collaborate and share ideas and experience with PLC colleagues
  
  
• Contribute written reflections on PLC activities through designated electronic format
  
  
• Conduct and complete a project, present project progress to PLC group, write a final report
  
  
• Present information and insight gained to the campus community through a spring campus conference and, if desired by participant, at national conferences