The Seven Norms of Collaboration are foundational to developing communities conducive to learning and inquiry. While appearing simple conceptually, they are complex in implementing. Moving the norms to everyday behaviors acted upon with automaticity requires attention and ongoing practice. Art Costa and Bena Kallick remind us of what is required to develop a true habit of mind.

Value: Choosing to employ a pattern of intellectual behaviors rather than other, less productive patterns.

Inclination: Feeling the tendency toward employing a pattern of intellectual behaviors.

Sensitivity: Perceiving opportunities for, and appropriateness of employing the pattern of behavior.

Capability: Possessing the basic skills and capacities to carry through with and sustain the pattern of intellectual behaviors.

Commitment: Reflecting on the results of using and striving to improve the performance of the pattern of intellectual behavior.

Policy: Promoting and incorporating the patterns of intellectual behaviors into actions, decisions and resolutions of problematic situations.

It is worth taking time in ongoing groups to assess your own level of development with each of the above. By asking questions of the group, such as, “What are some indicators that we truly value use of these norms?,” groups can explore what arenas might need more attention.