Professional Development to Promote Online Communication, Collaboration and Learning Among Faculty: A Community of Practice Approach

Based on a critical re-reading of a study of a community of practice approach to professional development, this chapter uses Engeström’s activity theory model to highlight the tensions that arise in a professional development program oriented to change teaching practice through the introduction of ICT and a student centered
pedagogical approach. Despite the community of practice potential, there are many tensions that inhibit this type of professional learning. These tensions can be summarized in four broad categories: Institutional structures (division of work), the institutional culture (rules), levels of engagement (differentiations within the community), and faculty’ readiness (in the appropriation of tools and new pedagogy). By analyzing, in greater depth, the tensions, our goal is to reflect again in the design principles and to further elaborate on developing a professional development strategy based on a community of practice approach that can be used in broader contexts.