Collaborative teaching approaches, supported by tools like Edsby, can reduce stress and improve both teacher retention and student outcomes

The global teacher shortage is one of the most pressing challenges facing education today. As schools grapple with increasing class sizes and dwindling resources, pressure on teachers has reached unprecedented levels. One of the roots of this crisis are the working conditions that drive some teachers out of the profession. To help address this, moving away from traditional staffing models that isolate teachers and embracing team-based approaches can provide crucial support, reduce burnout, and improve student outcomes. Edsby has a role to play, here.

The Teacher Shortage: A Growing Crisis

According to UNESCO, there’s a global need for nearly 44 million new teachers by 2030 to meet educational goals. In many countries, teachers are leaving the profession faster than they can be replaced, creating a vicious cycle where remaining teachers are burdened with increased workloads and responsibilities.

The reasons for this exodus are multifaceted and were acknowledged onstage recently by AASA Executive Director David Schuler, whose organization, the American School Superintendents Association, also advocates team-based teaching as a model for improved teacher satisfaction and retention.

The Problem with Traditional Staffing Models

Traditional staffing models often isolate teachers, expecting them to manage large classrooms, prepare lessons, and handle administrative tasks on their own. This model leaves little room for collaboration or support from colleagues, which can make teaching feel lonely and overwhelming. Research has shown that isolation is a significant factor contributing to teacher burnout and attrition, even before remote teaching and COVID-19.

In contrast, team-based approaches, where teachers work together in collaborative groups, offer a more supportive environment. Studies have found that when teachers collaborate, they are more likely to share best practices, provide mutual support, and innovate in their teaching methods. This collaborative approach not only benefits teachers but also leads to better student outcomes. For example, a study by the Annenberg Institute found that schools that implemented collaborative teaching models saw significant improvements in student achievement.

The Role of Collaboration in Teacher Retention and Student Success

Collaboration is key to both teacher retention and student success. When teachers work together, they can pool their expertise, share resources, and provide emotional and professional support to one another. This collaborative environment helps reduce the feelings of isolation and burnout that so many teachers experience. Collaboration also allows for more consistent and effective instruction, as teachers can align their teaching methods and ensure that all students are receiving high-quality education.

In addition to improving working conditions, collaborative approaches also help to create a more dynamic educational environment. Teachers who work in teams are more likely to engage in professional development, stay updated on the latest educational trends, and experiment with new teaching techniques. This ongoing professional growth benefits both teachers and students, leading to a more effective and engaging learning experience.

How Edsby’s Groups Capability Supports Teacher Collaboration

At Edsby, we understand the importance of collaboration in education. That’s why we designed our platform to foster inter- and intra-school collaboration through our Groups capability. Edsby Groups (details) enable teachers to create and join groups centered around specific interests, subjects, or professional development goals. These groups provide a safe, protected online space for educators to share curriculum, collaborate on lesson planning, and build their professional communities.

Edsby Groups are particularly effective in supporting professional development. Teachers can establish PD groups to access resources, participate in discussions, and share their experiences with other colleagues in their school, district or country/region.

Edsby Groups help to break down the barriers that often isolate teachers within their own classrooms. By connecting educators across different schools and districts, Edsby fosters a sense of community and collaboration that is essential for both teacher well-being and student success.

“Edsby’s groups allow for collaboration between teachers and students. Professional learning communities (PLCs) are especially useful and allow teachers to share resources.”

– Jessica Zhou, Teacher / St. Andrew’s College, using Edsby for every student, teacher and parent since 2011

Conclusion

The global teacher shortage is a complex problem that requires multifaceted solutions. However, it’s clear that improving working conditions for teachers is an essential element to address. Working to change existing models that isolate teachers and embracing team-based approaches will help teachers to thrive.

Edsby is proud to play a role in fostering collaboration among educators. Our Groups capability helps thousands of teachers worldwide feel less alone by providing a platform for sharing curriculum, collaborating on lesson plans, and building professional communities.