Developing the Effective Teaching Skills of Teacher Candidates During Early Field Experiences

Abstract

This study examined the development of effective teaching skills in teacher candidates in the context of early field experiences directly tied to a pedagogical course. Evidence from faculty instructors, mentor teachers, and teacher candidates suggests secondary education candidates were able to develop effective teaching skills related to instructional strategies, classroom management, and curriculum design during an early field experience. Teacher candidates developed these skills as they shifted their identities from candidates-as-students to candidates-as-teachers.