Reflective journaling in mathematics: Insights into the development of future teachers

Abstract

Given their responsibilities and influence on future students, preservice mathematics teachers’ preparation is critically important. This research's purpose was to explore reflective journaling for preservice teachers in advanced undergraduate mathematics courses. To accomplish this purpose, 39 preservice teachers enrolled in upper-level undergraduate mathematics courses shared evidence from their semester-long learning journals including self-perceptions as learners and future professionals. Student journals were analyzed using qualitative thematic methods; themes included perseverance through challenge, self-awareness of learning behaviors, building content knowledge, and future teaching connections. Participants perceived themselves as mathematics learners experiencing challenges and successes and as future educators building skills and preparing for the workplace. Findings reveal journaling's particular usefulness for building the mathematical habits of mind and professional mentality of preservice teachers, helping them to begin the transition of their viewpoints from student to teacher. This study has implications for preparing future teachers and designing corresponding undergraduate mathematics courses.