Revista Multidisciplinaria Perspectivas Investigativas
Multidisciplinary Journal Investigative Perspectives
Vol. 4(1), 29-37, 2024
Comunidad de aprendizaje profesional y pensamiento crítico en estudiantes
Professional learning community and critical thinking in students
Sindili Margarita Varas Rivera
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INTRODUCTION
In the glare of the digital era, the educational field is immersed in a constant process of
transformation. In this scenario, the notion of "Professional Learning Community" (CAP) has
emerged as a guiding beacon, illuminating the path towards a more effective and adaptive
education (Eirín-Nemiña, 2018). KLCs, understood as collaborative environments where
educators share knowledge, experiences and pedagogical strategies, have acquired significant
relevance in the contemporary context. The very fabric of education has evolved, and with it, the
demand for a more dynamic and collaborative approach among teaching professionals. In this
context, KAPs have flourished as virtuous spaces where teachers, principals, and other
educational actors converge to improve their pedagogical practice and thus enrich the learning
experience of students (Cabezas, et al. 2021), (Vaillant, 2019).
The fundamental purpose of this article is to explore in depth the phenomenon of Professional
Learning Communities, delineating their essential characteristics, examining their tangible and
intangible benefits, and exploring possible avenues for their successful implementation in diverse
educational settings. As education expands beyond the traditional walls of the classroom, CAPs
present themselves as a bridge between theory and practice, uniting educators in a collaborative
learning network (Rivera-Huaranga & Ledesma-Cuadros, 2021).
The very nature of CAPs is based on the premise that continuous learning is essential for
educational excellence. In a world where information flows rapidly and pedagogical
methodologies are constantly evolving, professional isolation is no longer a viable option. KAPs
offer a remedy to this disconnect by fostering the collective construction of knowledge and
continuous adaptation to the changing demands of the educational environment (Chue, 2016). In
examining the distinctive characteristics of KAPs, it is imperative to highlight their inclusive and
diverse nature. These communities transcend geographical boundaries and bring together
professionals from diverse disciplines, educational levels, and cultural backgrounds. This diversity
becomes an invaluable asset, as it fosters the generation of innovative ideas and the transfer of
good practices between seemingly disparate educational environments (Heemskerk, et al. 2020).
Technology plays a crucial role in building and sustaining KAPs. Online platforms, specialized
social networks and collaborative tools allow educators to connect across physical boundaries,
sharing resources, pedagogical strategies and common challenges. The virtuality of these
communities expands the possibilities for exchange and collaboration, facilitating the active
participation of educators who might otherwise be marginalized from professional development
opportunities (Hayward & Ward, 2018), (Anderi, et al. 2020).
However, effective implementation of CAPs is not limited to the adoption of advanced
technologies. It requires genuine commitment on the part of educators, educational leaders, and
the institutions that support them. Building a collaborative learning culture involves overcoming
cultural barriers, fostering trust and encouraging a willingness to share knowledge and
experiences. In addition, it is imperative to consider the creation of incentives and recognition that
value and promote active participation in these communities.
In this journey towards a more holistic and learning-centered education, KAPs emerge as
fundamental pillars. By deploying a range of strategies, from peer mentoring to collaborative
reflection on practice, these communities provide a space where educators can grow and thrive
professionally. Adopting professional development approaches based on collaboration and
critical reflection promotes a culture of continuous improvement, thereby enriching the quality of
the educational process.
The fascinating world of professional learning communities, exploring their impact on teacher
education, the improvement of pedagogical practice and, ultimately, on the educational
experience of students. Through a comprehensive analysis, it aims to shed light on the dynamics,
challenges and opportunities surrounding these communities, highlighting their crucial role in
building a more collaborative, adaptive and inclusive educational ecosystem.
At the crossroads of contemporary education, critical thinking emerges as a shining beacon,
outlining the path towards intellectual development and preparation to face the complex