Strategies for Achieving Scale within Communities of Practice Aimed at Pedagogical Reform in Higher Education

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe the strategies that four undergraduate faculty STEM reform communities of practice utilize to grow and expand their impact as they attempt to scale up reforms in higher education. This study is informed by the communities of practice literature and analyzes data gathered through document analysis, interviews, and observations. We identify six focal areas in which these communities engage to spread reforms and promote growth of their communities: disciplinary, institutional, sector-focused, constituent-based, national, and international. We highlight leverage points, strategies, and challenges within each focal area, concluding with implications for future community development and research.