Virtual communities of practice: nurturing teacher-coordinators’ well-being amidst stress and crisis

Odelia Orit Schrire, Kathrin Kirchner, Christine Ipsen, Dina Tsybulsky

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: This longitudinal study investigated the ways in which virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) can support the well-being of teachers in managerial roles during stressful changes and crises. Specifically, it examined the experiences of these educators to better understand how VCoPs contribute to sustaining well-being in the face of challenges. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative study methodology was utilized, consisting of three rounds of interviews with seven teacher-coordinators, coupled with content analysis to discern patterns and insights. A multidimensional model was then applied to pinpoint the associations between the community’s characteristics and the different approaches implemented by these teacher-coordinators to address stress and crises. Findings: The analysis revealed a range of coping strategies within the VCoPs for handling stress and crises. Participation in virtual spaces was shown to foster in-depth, rich discussions. The multidimensional model captures how social, emotional and cognitive factors can help teacher coordinators navigate challenges. Originality/value: This study contributes to a broader understanding of the well-being of educational staff, especially in managerial roles, by exploring the subtle dynamics of a VCoP. The findings highlight the impact of the community on teacher-coordinators' well-being in routine, stressful and crisis situations. These insights can provide valuable guidance for educational practitioners and policymakers to enhance the resilience of the education system to diverse challenges.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)431-449
Number of pages19
JournalJournal of Professional Capital and Community
Volume9
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 3 Dec 2024

Keywords

  • Crisis
  • Teacher-coordinators
  • VCoPs
  • Well-being

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Social Psychology
  • Education
  • Communication

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