Changing knowledge & cultures in teacher education: autoethnography for critical reflection

Abstract

Education evolves as knowledge and cultures shift. People are at the center of education, disseminating knowledge, making meaning, and influencing generations to come. This chapter acknowledges the early roots of the profession, addresses the types and the role of reflection, specifically in teacher preparation, and then proposes the use of autoethnography as a method for critical reflection. When introduced and used purposefully, autoethnography can serve a vehicle to examine and unearth beliefs about teaching and learning. Examination of personal beliefs is critical to addressing issues of social justice in education.