Developing Teachers’ Advocate Identities Through Exploratory Talk

Abstract

ABSTRACT In educational contexts characterized by persisting inequalities, preparing teachers to advocate for historically marginalized students is a critical element in constructing more equitable educational experiences for all students and their families. However, little is known about how teachers develop and hone their sense of advocacy. Therefore, this study documents how English as a second language (ESL) endorsement candidates (ECs; n = 60) collaboratively develop a sense of “advocacy identity” when they engage in exploratory talk after a simulated advocacy experience. Drawing on group reflection videos, findings highlight how teachers’ lives and experiences inform their interpretations of advocacy. By sharing personal narratives and different types of knowledge, teachers articulate their thinking, solidify their stance as advocates, and co-construct new understandings of what it means to be an advocate for their multilingual learners (MLs). These findings have implications for promoting deeper engagement with advocacy in teacher education and professional development, ultimately toward building collaborative capacity for teachers to support and advocate for historically marginalized students.