We are happy to share a new publication from our research on Biology Teachers’ Professional Learning Communities (PLCs):
Ophir, M. & Tsybulsky, D. (2026). From member to facilitator: Meaningful learning experiences and leadership expertise as a practice in a professional learning community for biology-teacher facilitators. Professional Development in Education. https://doi.org/10.1080/19415257.2026.2731047
The study examines how experienced biology teachers develop the expertise needed to move from being members of professional learning communities to facilitating them. Our findings highlight the important role of pedagogical goals in shaping facilitators’ learning and reveal a critical challenge: modelling effective facilitation is valuable, but is not sufficient on its own. Developing facilitation expertise also requires structured opportunities for reflection, practice, and adapting what has been learned to different community contexts.
The study is part of our ongoing research on Biology Teachers’ PLCs, exploring how professional learning communities can support teacher learning, leadership, and professional growth.