The Big Picture: Defining Characteristics of Collaboration

Friend & Cook (2003) have developed a useful list of  “Defining Characteristics of Collaboration.”  According to their framework:

• Collaboration is voluntary.
• Teachers share mutual goals.
• Teachers share resources.
• There is parity between the two teachers.
• The two teachers share responsibility.
• The two teachers have shared accountability.

For more information, see Friend & Cook’s Interactions: Collaboration Skills for School Professionals (2003, Allyn & Bacon)