Creating Confident Preservice Teachers for EL Students in the Changing World

Abstract

English Learners (ELs) represent the most diverse group of students and a student population that has increased significantly in the United States. These students demand well-equipped teachers who have adequate preparation and pedagogical tools to meet their diverse needs. This research examined preservice teachers’ (N=77) perceptions of preparedness and efficacy beliefs from three different educator preparation programs using a mixed-method study that collected data from a 30-item survey as well as candidates’ narrative responses about preparation experiences for working with ELs. Findings included statistical differences in teachers’ perceptions of preparedness based on the preparation program they were enrolled in (e.g., bachelor’s or master’s) and whether teachers were receiving an ESL/ESOL certification as part of their initial preparation. Moreover, preservice teachers reported that ESL coursework, specific workshops that honed into ESL pedagogies, and field-placement opportunities to interact with EL students were influential in improving their abilities and confidence in the classroom. These findings suggest the continual need for teacher education programs to embed related ESL coursework as well as placing preservice teachers in clinical settings with EL students to influence effective pedagogies for the success of EL students in the classroom and beyond.