Teacher Beliefs Research Articles

Unpacking expert teachers’ theory construction experiences: a case study

ABSTRACT This case study uses qualitative data generated over three years to explore how a Chinese expert teacher constructs her personal practical theory (PPT) about teaching. The data analysis showed that the teacher successfully constructed a personally relevant, institutionally expected, and socio-culturally embedded PPT that manifested her teaching beliefs. The teacher constructed the PPT through five essential and interrelated steps: (a) identifying effective teaching practice; (b) crystalising a core concept from effective teaching; (c) proposing theoretical tenets around the core concept; (d) configuring the theoretical tenets into a preliminary PPT; (e) refining the PPT in relevant communities. The theory construction experience deepened the teacher’s understanding of teaching and enhanced her confidence in engaging with educational theories and university-based scholars. However, the teacher’s lack of knowledge about educational theories and hands-on tools for theory construction posed significant challenges to the teacher. This study generates new empirical evidence and conceptual insights into teacher theory construction, enriching international discussions on the theory-practice gap in education. The research findings also suggest practical implications for frontline teachers, facilitating their engagement with theories to close the theory-practice divide in their situated contexts.

How teachers perceive the impact of teacher feedback: A latent class analysis

How do teachers perceive and experience the impact of evaluation feedback across various domains of their work? This study investigates whether there are qualitatively distinct groups of teachers in the United States based on teacher perceived impact of evaluation feedback using the 2013 Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS 2013). Applying latent class analysis to the U.S. sample of lower-secondary school teachers (n=1,824), we find that there are four distinctive groups of teachers: Receptive (25%), Compliant (15%), Motivated (27%), and Indifferent (33%). Our analysis shows feedback sources and teacher beliefs about the evaluation’s purpose are significant predictors of teacher class assignment. Finally, controlling for various individual and school-level characteristics, these teacher groups vary significantly in their intention to change school.

Teachers’ Perceptions of Implementing Ontario’s Right to Read Report’s Recommendations

In 2022, the Ontario Human Rights Commission released the Right to Read Report that outlined 157 recommendations for literacy instruction in Ontario, Canada. For educators, these recommendations included using structured literacy in their classrooms. The present study investigated teachers’ perceptions of how difficult implementing these recommendations would be and what they saw as facilitators and barriers. Teachers reported that starting structured literacy practices would be easier than both stopping current practices (e.g., cueing, running records) and providing more intensive instruction or intervention to struggling students. They also noted that initial teacher training programs need to do more to prepare teacher candidates. They identified teacher training, classroom resources, funding, and teacher beliefs as the factors that can serve equally as facilitators and barriers to successful implementation. Recommendations are offered by teachers to ease a shift towards structured literacy practices.

Teacher beliefs on oral proficiency: Implications for classroom practice

Little is known about language teachers’ beliefs around target language (TL) oral proficiency and its impact on teaching practices and professional teacher identity. This qualitative case-study aimed to uncover these beliefs, as well as to explore teacher perspectives on proficiency requirements as a standard for licensure. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 34 in-service language teachers, and interview transcripts were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. The findings reveal that the majority of participants believe TL proficiency affects their teaching practices and professional identities in a variety of ways. However, a range of perspectives are shared on proficiency requirements for licensure. The implications of this research may inform the work of educator preparation programs, professional development programming, and legislation at the state and national level.

Navigating linguistic diversity: teachers’ beliefs on multilingual pedagogies in monolingual policy schools

In response to the increasing linguistic diversity in educational settings resulting from migration waves into the Global North, this study delves into the beliefs of secondary teachers regarding multilingualism within predominantly monolingual policy schools in Flanders, Belgium. Despite the recognized benefits of multilingual pedagogies, entrenched monolingual policies persist in many Western schools, posing challenges for teachers striving to navigate the linguistic repertoires of their students. Drawing on interviews with 18 teachers, including language and content teachers across three secondary schools, this research explores teachers’ perspectives on the potential implementation of multilingual pedagogies in their classrooms. Findings reveal a nuanced landscape of beliefs, with teachers acknowledging the cognitive and emotional benefits of multilingualism while expressing concerns about maintaining control and promoting Dutch proficiency. Notably, minimal distinctions were observed between language and content teachers, indicating a shared optimism tempered by practical considerations. Our study highlights the need for nuanced understanding and support for multilingual pedagogies, underscoring the complex interplay of pedagogical and instructional beliefs in navigating language diversity. Ultimately, fostering inclusive and effective language education practices requires proactive efforts to address and accommodate teachers’ beliefs, promoting professional development and dialogue around multilingualism in educational settings.

Intersecting ideologies: a case study of teachers’ language beliefs and practices with trilingual students

ABSTRACT This qualitative case study, informed by the theoretical framework of language ideologies, explored the origins and complexity of two in-service teachers’ language ideologies and how these ideologies were reflected in their classroom practices when teaching trilingual students. Findings revealed that both teachers had complex ideological systems, with both teachers moving from primarily monolingual orientations encountered early in life toward pluralist perspectives as their worldviews shifted; however, in complicated ways, both sets of ideologies coexisted, simultaneously shaping the opportunities for learning they provided to their trilingual students. The article closes with implications for the development of effective teacher education programs that take into account the complexity of teacher beliefs and their impact on classroom practices.

Promoting Gender Equity through Teacher Education: A Comparison of Turkish and American Preservice Teachers’ Perspectives

Gender perception and beliefs of teachers constitute a significant dimension of gender inequities in education. Even in societies that have made significant progress in achieving gender equity, the structure and content of teacher education remains insufficient to create gender awareness among teacher trainees and to develop an egalitarian understanding of education. Utilizing a multiple case study design, the present study examines the extent to which the teacher education programs in two different countries, Türkiye and the USA, prepare pre-service teachers to be gender sensitive in their practices as teachers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 student teachers from two countries. Student teachers talked about their experiences inside the teacher education programs and their views regarding how issues surrounding gender were embedded into the teacher education curriculum. Interviews revealed the nature and quality of teacher education, social mechanisms and relations within the teacher education programs in shaping the gender norms of prospective teachers. The study has important implications for educational policies, school practices, and teacher education programs.

The impact of Chinese university music teachers’ teaching beliefs on creative teaching behaviors: the mediating role of technological acceptance

This study focuses on college teachers in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China, aiming to explore the relationships among teaching beliefs, creative teaching behaviors, and technology acceptance. The research adopts a questionnaire survey method, using scales for teaching beliefs, creative teaching behaviors, and technology acceptance to conduct online surveys of college teachers in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China. Convenience sampling is employed during the survey. The study mainly verifies the theoretical model proposed by using statistical analysis software such as SPSS and AMOS. The results reveal that teaching beliefs of college teachers in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China positively predict creative teaching behaviors; teaching beliefs positively predict technology acceptance; technology acceptance positively predicts creative teaching behaviors; and technology acceptance has a significant mediating effect between teaching beliefs and creative teaching behaviors.

Exploring pre-service English teachers’ beliefs about plurilingualism: using visual and spoken methodologies with learners in a CLIL setting

ABSTRACT This study investigates how pre-service Teachers of English in Bilingual Streams’ (TEBs) perceptions of plurilingualism are elicited through carrying out small-scale research with learners. It builds on previous studies showing positive relations between teacher education and shifts in pre-service teachers’ predispositions towards plurilingual education, particularly when opportunities for critical reflection on the interplay between course- and field work is emphasised. TEBs (N = 6) were introduced to visual and spoken data collection methods consisting of language mapping and focus group interviews during coursework and administered these during fieldwork. Spoken and written research reports were analysed deductively using language ideologies adapted from Ricklefs (2023). Results show all participants have a positive disposition to plurilingualism on completion of the course and fieldwork, particularly in relation to valuing plurilingualism as a potential resource in CLIL. Implementing multimodal research methods makes linguistic variation visible and draws out learner experiences. This helps TEBs make connections between their own beliefs and experiences, and those articulated by their learners and in their placement schools. This approach builds on the dynamic nature of the interaction between teacher beliefs and practices and confirms that critical reflection can play a key role in shaping TEBs’ dispositions towards plurilingualism and plurilingual pedagogies.

Pope Francis’ Vision and Whole Child Education, Part II: Exploring the Foundational Beliefs of Imago Dei, Magis, and Dios en Todo

This paper expands the response to Pope Francis’ invitation to dialogue on how educators can help shape the future of the planet by focusing on integral human development. This paper expands on the thinking of Warner, Wyttenbach, and McMahon [2023. “Pope Francis’ Vision and Whole Child Education: Exploring the Foundational Beliefs of Cura Personalis and Accompaniment.” The Review of Faith & International Affairs 21 (1): 15–27. https://doi.org/10.1080/15570274.2023.2177453], who offered a theological examination of two primary beliefs of whole child education—accompaniment and cura personalis. Adding to the theological foundations of whole child education, in this paper we offer further discussion on three additional beliefs of whole child education—Imago Dei (we are all made in the image and likeness of God), magis (striving for more, and seeing God in all things), and Dios en todo (God in all things). These two papers advance Pope Francis’ vision for integral human development and a framework for whole child education that practitioners and scholars can attend to in their practice and research.

“The Stranger at Home”: Dissent, Prejudice, and Mary: A Fiction

ABSTRACT This essay explores Wollstonecraft’s experimental first novel, Mary: A Fiction (1788) in the context of Dissenting preoccupation with prejudice. It shows how Wollstonecraft shared the Dissenters’ analysis that prejudice was the source of political and social oppression, and how she extended that insight into her account of the situation of women. She shared with Dissent a belief in education and in print culture as tools to combat prejudice, but her experimental textual strategies differ significantly from, for instance, that of Dissenter Anna Laetitia Barbauld, in her “Address to the Opposers of the Repeal of the Corporation and Test Acts” (1790). Where Barbauld replicates in print the rhetorical strategies of public and political discourse, Wollstonecraft, in key moments in Mary, draws on the model, from Edward Young, of authentic, persuasive enthusiasm, to “steal into the soul” of her readers. Early in her writing career, she can thus be seen seeking to turn affective transport to political effect, and experimenting with the resources and registers of print culture to combat prejudice, and enact dissent.

Usage and beliefs of student teachers towards artificial intelligence in writing

Abstract Generative AI applications are believed to have disruptive potential, not only for academic writing. However, little is known about which AI tools are used to what extent for writing. This is especially true for student teachers who are expected both to learn writing and teach it in the future. Therefore, 505 student teachers were surveyed about their usage of and beliefs regarding writing with AI. The results show that ChatGPT is the most frequently used application, although knowledge of AI does not automatically translate into regular use. Nevertheless, most participants believe that AI applications play a crucial role for writing in school. Considering the extent of AI usage and beliefs about AI in a regression model, AI literacy, the subject studied, self-assessed digital skills, and writing-related self-concept can explain a medium amount of the variance. Based on these findings, the article draws conclusions for further research and teacher training.

Aprendizaje activo en enseñanza media: creencias docentes que facilitan y obstaculizan su aplicación

The health crisis has accentuated the teaching-learning challenges in the national school system, highlighting the urgency of improving educational quality. To achieve this, it is essential to improve pedagogical practices in classrooms, moving from conventional methods to student-centered strategies. This allows active and conscious participation in their challenges and achievements, adapting to current needs. This research analyzes the beliefs of secondary school teachers in Chile through a multiple case study in three high schools in the Metropolitan Region. The opportunities and difficulties linked to active learning in high schools that apply a teacher professional development program were explored. The results reveal that teachers incorporate their beliefs about active learning, considering factors such as the diversity of students, the development of skills such as inquiry and reflection, and the challenges that come with the transition from a traditional to an active approach. These findings indicate that teachers are willing to adopt active learning, demonstrating a commitment to improvement, which increases the challenge for the educational system to provide the necessary tools to make this possible.

영유아 교사의 놀이신념 관련 연구동향 분석

Objectives This study analyzes the trends of domestic research related to play beliefs of infants and toddler teachers to provide basic data for the study of play beliefs, and suggests the direction and implications of subsequent studies. Methods 107 collected papers were systematically analyzed using the method of calculating frequency and percentage according to the research period, research subject, research method, research tool, and research topic. Results First, research related to play beliefs of infants and toddler teachers has been conducted continuously since 1998, and has increased sharply since 2020, when the 2019 revised Nuri course was applied to the field. Second, the most research has been conducted on incumbent teachers, and among them, research on early childhood teachers has been conducted with a higher proportion than infant teachers. Third, most of the research was conducted with quantitative research methods, and in particular, the most research examining the correlation between various variables related to play beliefs was conducted, showing a somewhat biased tendency. Fourth, the type that was adapted and modified from the PPBS of Fogle (2003) was the most used among all studies. Fifth, the most research has been conducted on ‘seeking variables related to play beliefs’. Conclusions Through the results of this study, it is significant in that it identifies the research trend of teachers' play beliefs that support infants' play, examines the limitations, and provides basic data on teachers' practices supporting play-oriented education in early childhood education sites to suggest the direction for future follow-up research related to play beliefs.

Implementation of Merdeka Belajar in Indonesian Language Learning in Senior High Schools

This qualitative case study explores the implementation of the "Merdeka Belajar" (Freedom to Learn) approach in Indonesian language learning at the senior high school level. The study investigates the perceptions and practices of Indonesian language teachers, the alignment between Merdeka Belajar principles and classroom instruction, and the challenges and opportunities associated with this innovative curriculum framework. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and the analysis of curricular materials. The findings reveal a varied landscape of Merdeka Belajar implementation, with some teachers enthusiastically embracing the approach and others struggling to adapt. Key factors influencing the process include teacher beliefs, administrative support, and the broader educational ecosystem. The study highlights the potential of Merdeka Belajar to transform Indonesian language education by fostering student-centered, personalized, and technology-enhanced learning experiences. The insights gained can inform policymakers, school leaders, and educators in their efforts to effectively integrate the Merdeka Belajar approach and deliver a more empowering and relevant language curriculum.

Perceptions, Knowledge, and Beliefs of Secondary Literature Teachers on Online Streaming Services in Select Public Schools in North Cotabato, Philippines

Perceptions, Knowledge, and Beliefs of Secondary Literature Teachers on Online Streaming Services in Select Public Schools in North Cotabato, Philippines

Lecturer’s Belief and Classroom Practices on The Use of Video in English Language Teaching

This study aims to investigate the EFL lecturer's beliefs in teaching speaking using video to fifth-semester students in a private university in Indonesia. A qualitative method was employed as the design of this study, involving an in-depth exploration of the lecturer's perspectives and practices. An English teacher was purposefully selected as the research subject of the study. The data were collected through stimulated recall and semi-structured interviews, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the lecturer's beliefs and classroom practices. The findings were categorized into six major themes: 1) the source of the lecturer's belief in teaching speaking using video; 2) the purpose of using video in teaching speaking skills; 3) the reasons for using video in teaching speaking skills; 4) the reflection of those beliefs in classroom practices; 5) considerations in choosing the videos; and 6) challenges faced by the lecturer in teaching speaking using video. The results revealed that there was no discrepancy between the teacher's beliefs and teaching practices. The lecturer believes that using video in teaching speaking classes enables students to learn individually, which is reflected in his teaching practice. For example, the lecturer allows students to watch videos individually, facilitating a more personalized learning experience. This alignment between belief and practice underscores the importance of integrating multimedia tools in language teaching, as they can enhance student engagement and autonomy. The study highlights the potential of videos as a valuable resource in language education, particularly in improving speaking skills among EFL learners

Equity and excellence in English language education in the USA: A literature review from the 1960s to 2020s

This study examined the trends in English language education (ELE) using a literature review from the 1960s to the 2020s as a research method. After reading the 1012 journal article abstracts, 210 articles emerged using the 37 keywords, which were supposed to embrace racial and linguistic equity. After multiple iterations of reading and open coding these abstracts, thirty-two articles were selected for the final analysis. One research question guided this study, “What were the emerging trends of PK-12 ELE in the USA in terms of equity and excellence from the 1960s to the 2020s?” Three phases were identified: Phase 1 (1968-1999) on remedial service; Phase 2 (2000-2007) on test accountability; and Phase 3 (2008-2020) on asset-based ELE. We integrated Feiman-Nemser’s central tasks into the four themes: 1) gaining EBLs' funds of knowledge (FoK), 2) enacting EBLs' racial, linguistic, and cultural repertoires, 3) forming teacher beliefs, and 4) deepening knowledge of the curriculum. The findings revealed shifts in three phases under each theme: from assimilating to the target language and culture and devaluing EBLs' assets in Phase 1 to interweaving EBLs’ FoK but with racialized attitude towards EBLs in Phase 2 and valuing EBLs’ FoK as assets, seeing them as ‘language architect’, and integrating translanguaging and resisting raciolinguistic ideologies into ELE in Phase 3.

Spanish Teachers’ Beliefs about Plurilingualism: A Case Study in a Monolingual Context

In Spain, the learning of foreign languages has become one of the most interesting educational challenges in recent decades. Regulatory changes have been proposed to align with the Council of Europe’s language policy, which aims to promote plurilingualism and pluriculturalism among European Union citizens. Although the development of plurilingual competence in students has become a key goal, there is little evidence regarding the beliefs of current teachers, especially in monolingual contexts, where multilingualism is mainly developed through instruction. This study involved 307 teachers who taught languages or subjects in a foreign language. The results reveal beliefs about the promotion of plurilingualism, the objectives of language learning, the importance of plurilingual competence, and its characterization that at times do not align with the European language policy and its approach to plurilingualism, though there is agreement on other issues. Among the variables analyzed, two variables—academic training and the number of languages known—were found to significantly influence the beliefs revealed.

A Systematic Review of Teachers’ Perceptions and Beliefs Towards Gender Issues in Mathematics Learning

There is still very little concern especially, regarding teacher's perceptions towards gender differences and their influences in mathematics learning. Teachers are prominent factors in mathematics learning and the importance of perceptions and beliefs of teachers towards gendering, their long-term influences and their differential impacts on males and females cannot be ignored. The purpose of this study is to synthesize existing researches related to teachers' perceptions and beliefs towards gender in learning Mathematics. A qualitative systematic review of related literature of teachers’ perceptions and beliefs towards gendering in learning mathematics is conducted. The qualitative review has followed the PRISMA protocol that was outlined by Moher et al. Total of 10 articles (six quantitative, four qualitative including a systematic literature review) are chosen for inclusion for this study. Thematic analysis suggested by Braun and Clarke is used as a method to draw findings and conclusions by generating themes within the information. The thematic findings of the study are associated with the major themes that are related to teachers' perceptions and beliefs towards gender in mathematics learning. The findings are based on the major themes: participation and motivation; behaviors and performance; abilities and ICT use; teaching methods, curriculum and practices and career choices. Hence, the importance of exploring teachers' perceptions and beliefs towards gender issues in mathematics learning has been acknowledged in this study. The study has claimed that gender parity can be achieved when mathematics teachers believe that students (both boys and girls) are valuable potentials and they praise them for their effort and achievements to develop confidentiality in mathematical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Recommendations to the concerned stakeholders to enhance equity in mathematics learning are proposed in this study.