For three weeks, Sustaining the Thinking Collaborative Journey has been making connections between Chin and Benne’s work on change strategies and the work of Adaptive Schools and Cognitive CoachingSM. This week considers the Normative-Reeducative Process. Unlike the other processes, this method focuses on the individual rather than the innovation. The values that underpin the Normative-Reeducative Process are that an individual should be a participant in the change process. Change is based on examining the values and beliefs in the culture and developing interdependence with socially shared norms. The process is less focused on giving information (although consulting is part of it) and force, and more on collaboration among individuals and the change agent. This method is less common than the other two and is most closely aligned with the work of Thinking Collaborative.

What are some examples of when you have experienced this type of change process? How might dialogue and discussion be a part of the Normative-Reeducative Process? What are some ways that coaching supports this model?

What are some examples of collaborative groups in your schools that are providing support for this type of change process?

Source: Chin, R., & Benne, K.D. (1969) General strategies for effecting changes in human systems. In W.G. Bennis, K.D. Benne, & R. Chin (Eds), The planning of change (pp. 32-59). New York: Holt, Rinehart & Winston.