Learning and environment. It seems that collaboration can act as a conduit for learning where teachers learn about themselves, different skills and other unexpected knowledge. Some teachers are motivated to learn intrinsically while others need an extrinsic influence, often an imposed one, to help them learn. This is what Teacher 3 from School B said, ‘‘So they’re reluctant to learn on their own. However, if someone organises a workshop and it’s compulsory, they’re willing to learn’’ (Xxxxxx, 22.9.2021). Naturally, teachers are supposed to seek learning because they are in the profession that requires continuous learning, considering the quick pace of the education development around the world. However, based on the teachers’ comments, the case is otherwise; teachers may need to be told when and what to learn, instead of their taking initiative. Other participants indicated that they had learnt specific skills and practical knowledge during collaborations. For example, Teacher 2 from School A said, ‘‘What I’ve learnt is listening to ideas, be open to suggestions and solutions. And also have been learning to accept the ideas of others and how to communicate with others effectively’’ (Violet, 19.9.2021). The finding implies that the teacher has improved her communication skills in the process of collaboration. Another teacher from School 1 seems to have learnt to be more meticulous and developed a rather determined approach to completion when organising collaborative projects. He said the following: I learnt that it takes effort and time to do projects. It seems easy on surface to arrange for one, but it really is difficult. Attention to detail is needed. But the end result can be very enjoyable. Also, initiation isn’t enough, one must see it through. (Xxxxxxxx, 21.9.2021) Another teacher from School B has acquired new knowledge from experiments conducted by other science teachers with whom he was collaborating. In addition, he reported that he knew his colleagues better now and that communication amongst them had improved. These are his words: I learnt about different experiments from Biology, Physics and Chemistry teachers. That positive results from the project can motivate you to do more. To add, by looking at the Ss’ work on the projects (findings) of Biology for example, I learnt a lot about the subject. I also got to know the teachers better and communication amongst us became better. (Xxxx, 18.9.2021) The above finding demonstrates that collaborations among different subject ...
