School as professional learning communities : challenges for small island states with special reference to Malta

Abstract

This dissertation seeks to examine the concept of profossional learning communities. It does this in relation to the challenges that small states face regarding issues of educational planning and management which are often exacerbated by limits and constraints characteristic of small island states. A case study was conducted at a local secondary school to investigate whether the ideas, values and building blocks which are part of professional leamh1g communities were present at this school at the time of research (2005). The main conclusion of this dissertation reveals that at the time of research, the school understudy was found to be on its way towards becoming a professional learning organisation Yet, notwithstanding some strong building blocks that the school had, results of the study show that if the school wants to continue on its journey, it needs to improve its weaker building blocks which were found to be related to technology and its use, people empowerment and knowledge management.