Educator Preparation Programs Research Articles

Nurses as an Integral Part of Research

This editorial addresses the roles of nurses in research for a great understanding by all involved in healthcare to promote interprofessional collaboration to advance healthcare practices across the healthcare continuum. The history of research within the profession of nursing, as well as organizational support and educational preparation programs are discussed. Why nursing involvement in research is critical to the profession and to overall patient care and what areas need to be strengthened are also highlighted.

Preparation program for bariatric surgery designed with patients: challenges and benefits

Despite the weight and metabolic efficiency of bariatric surgery, nearly 35 % of operated patients regain weight due to insufficient behavioral changes. Collaborating with patient partners to co-construct an educational preparation program represents an opportunity to promote patient involvement adjusted to societal developments. This partnership starts with an exploration of the partners' needs and follows a progressive and tailored process that responds to the issues of place and power raised. It leads to the creation of a day of teaching, at the beginning of the course, aimed at informed consent and to a program, at the end of the course, focused on behavioral changes in their concrete dimension in support of a new and recognized health actor: the patient partner.

Un Día De Lo Padre: a multigenerational Plática with bilingual pre-service teachers and their elders, sharing perspectivas about translanguaging and bilingual education

In university bilingual educator preparation programs, we frequently discuss issues across and around language, culture, and teaching. Topics inevitably emerge regarding the dialogue first generation college students have with their family members about maintaining the ‘purity’ of a language vis-à-vis navigating the waters of a translanguaging corriente [current]. In this article, we examine these perspectives after having witnessed a snapshot of this dialogue. In fall 2018, a group of Latin@ undergraduate bilingual pre-service teachers in our university Second Language Acquisition course invited their elders to class. Amidst food, music, tears, and risas, we were honored to enter into this robust conversation about the tension between the potential of translanguaging and the power of the idea of language ‘purity.’ While the professional field and course content offered students grounding in theory and pedagogy, parents offered personal and deeply felt convictions; both aimed to support and sustain Latin@ bilingual and immigrant identities. After sharing our thematic analysis of recordings of class conversations on that day and others, student reflections, and follow-up student interviews with elders, we discuss what these critical conversations mean to bilingual pre-service teachers and bilingual preparation programs in the university.

Middle and high school teachers' perceptions of cyberbullying prevention and digital citizenship

AbstractCyberbullying is a significant public health concern that has been associated with negative outcomes. The pandemic has increased the reliance on technology in the classroom; thus, research exploring cyberbullying in the classroom is even more important. Furthermore, it is important to understand teachers' perceptions of cyberbullying to inform efforts to support teachers in addressing cyberbullying. With a nationally representative sample of 174 teachers in the United States, a series of questionnaires were administered to investigate teachers' perceptions of cyberbullying, their preparedness to address cyberbullying, perceptions of effective strategies to address cyberbullying and whether social‐emotional learning programs used in their schools incorporate digital citizenship skills. Results indicated little change in the rates of cyberbullying in schools, but that teachers reported a need for training and professional development to best support them on this topic. Implications related to teacher educator preparation programs and school based interventions targeting cyberbullying are discussed.

Teacher Candidates’ Communication and Collaboration with Family and Community During COVID-19

ABSTRACT After schools were closed in AY 2019–2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers were expected to continue two-way communication and collaboration with their students’ families without much guidance. In this study, we focus on how five teacher candidates navigated and continued their efforts of communication and collaboration with students’ families and the larger community during the pandemic. Through storytelling during interviews, the five teacher candidates provided valuable insight that focused on communication during the pandemic. Findings indicated that these teacher candidates struggled with establishing professional boundaries with students’ families, wrestled with the unforeseeable challenges of “being” in the homes of their students’ families, and experienced a disconnect from the community. Implications of this study suggest that lessons learned during COVID-19 could transform how teacher candidates and Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs) practice future two-way communication and collaboration with students’ families.

Framework and suggestions for kindergarten to third grade teachers in managing asthma and other related chronic illnesses

ABSTRACT Early childhood educator preparation program curricula contain limited course work and accompanying field experiences on chronic illness management and supporting young children with these conditions. The current study examines data from 319 kindergarten to third grade teachers from the southeastern United States and their perceptions of statewide resources, school supports, and professional learning surrounding chronic illness and asthma management in schools. Results indicated teachers were not aware of the statewide supports for understanding regulations and accessing policies to assist children with chronic illness and asthma and that teachers were not adequately prepared to support children with chronic illness in their classrooms. Preparation programs did not include specific standards or experiences for supporting and teaching children with chronic illness. Teachers identified in-service opportunities as the educational context where professional learning about chronic illness took place. Twenty percent of teachers did not have strategies in place nor a minimum level of knowledge about medical emergencies or First Aid/CPR. We present a framework for addressing chronic illness with specific suggestions for improved preparation for teachers to enhance the early learning experiences of children in their classrooms.

“My Spanish Feels Like My Second Language”: Addressing the Challenges of the Academic Language of Bilingual Teachers

ABSTRACT Many bilingual preservice teachers in Texas are not able to get certified because of language limitations. Although they have grown up listening and speaking their native language at home, with family and friends, many face challenges when using academic language in a formal setting. There is a mismatch between their language level and their actual performance. This qualitative study explored Latina preservice bilingual teachers’ language proficiency levels in oral and written academic language skills during a bilingual methods course as part of the requirements for teaching certification. The participants learned about their language strengths and areas of needed improvement through diagnostic assessments; they worked on improving their language before taking a high-stakes test for bilingual teaching certification. Then data from the assessments was used to plan and tailor instruction to meet the linguistic needs of the participants. The study found participants had increased awareness of language strengths and needs; gained confidence in their language ability to speak and write using academic language. A strong recommendation for all bilingual educator preparation programs is to set minimum language entry requirements of early advanced in the target language, identify language strengths and needs as early as possible; tailor instruction targeting academic oral and writing skills, and provide opportunity for the bilingual candidates to learn about their language ability at early stages in the program.

Designing EPPs Aligned with CEC’s 2020 Initial Practice-Based K-12 Standards

CEC’s 2020 Practice-Based Standards for Preparation of Special Educators (K-12) identify proficiencies considered essential for successful entry into the profession. To assist Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs) in the design and assessment of programs aligned with these new Standards, the authors introduce a six-step approach that is systematic, deliberative, and applicable in diverse contexts. The approach includes: (a) understanding the Standards and available resources, (b) aligning CEC Standards with CEC’s High Leverage Practices (HLPs), InTASC and other applicable standards; (c) mapping the program to standards to identify gaps and redundancies; (d) developing course syllabi; (e) identifying key program assessments; and (f) implementing and monitoring the program. Each step of the process is described, and examples are provided.

Racial and Dis/Ability Equity-Oriented Educational Leadership Preparation

In this paper we discuss the connection between the lack of special education specific preparation for leaders and decades of evidence of racial inequities in special education. In doing so, we have a four-fold purpose. First, we outline the basic IDEA legal requirements that educational leadership preparation programs should provide prospective leaders. Second, we argue that educational leaders must develop a nuanced lens when engaging with the IDEA, informed by critical special and dis/Ability studies. Three, we provide a situated critique rooted in current IDEA racial equity monitoring to show how technical mandates are insufficient for assuring justice and equity on the ground level. And fourth, we propose three key components that should be added to special education leadership preparation programs in order to better prepare future administrators to achieve the goals of IDEA and reduce racial and dis/Ability disparities. We conclude it is imperative for future leaders to be equipped with the necessary IDEA legal literacy and critical dispositions so that educational equity and justice are possible for Black, Indigenous Youth of Color (BIYOC) with and without dis/Abilities in schools.
 
 

Simulated field experiences and culturally responsive pedagogy among teacher candidates

ABSTRACT New teachers often work in culturally diverse schools after practicum at culturally homogenous schools. Simulated field experiences could ensure that they are better prepared. This study measured gains in culturally responsive pedagogy among teacher candidates after a semester of simulated field experiences. Teacher candidates completed a pre- and post-test evaluation. Findings revealed significantly higher culturally responsive pedagogy, specifically in cultural value of diversity and self-regulation support. Simulations may be a promising complement to traditional field experiences in education; policymakers and faculty should explore incorporating them into educator preparation programs.

Integration of ECE and EI/ECSE personnel preparation standards: going beyond alignment

ABSTRACT This article proposes a reconceptualization of the relationship between two early childhood professional standards, the Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators (NAEYC, 2019) and the Practice-Based Professional Preparation Standards for Early Interventionists/Early Childhood Special Educators (CEC & DEC, 2020), from an aligned or a parallel approach to an integration approach that advances the shared equity agenda in early childhood education. In the integrative approach, the ECE Standards are viewed as the foundation for educating all children with diverse social identities (i.e., ability, race, language, socioeconomic) and the EI/ECSE Standards as the expansion on the foundation specifically for children with differing abilities. A rationale is provided for integrating the standards and the process of integration is exemplified around three broad themes central to both sets of standards: inclusion and diversity, responsive and relevant practices, and building partnerships. Integrating the two professional standards will guide educator preparation programs for inclusion, provide clarity and unity around the knowledge and competencies of early childhood professionals across settings, and unify the workforce in ECE and EI/ECSE for the shared goal of promoting inclusion and equity. Our aim is for the audience to consider the integrative approach as a conceptual framework for building shared values, visions, and knowledge in ECE and EI/ECSE to promote inclusive, equitable early childhood learning opportunities and to unify educators around the shared equity agenda.

A Culturally Affirming Shared Leadership Framework

The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) encourages school counselors to promote equity experiences for all students through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration. School counselors and school administrators (e.g., principals, assistant principals) are uniquely positioned to combine their social capital in an effort to create a positive school culture and empower students who have been historically oppressed. We acknowledge the existence of current leadership approaches applicable to the educational setting; however, the literature lacks action steps for these professionals to collaboratively utilize their leadership skills as they champion social justice. Therefore, we present a culturally affirming, shared leadership framework that may be applied within P–12 schools and school counselor and leadership educator preparation programs.

‘It was natural and real-life’: book clubs as professional development for preservice teachers

ABSTRACT Decades of research indicate teacher dissatisfaction with traditional professional development (PD), while a growing body of research literature indicates the value of heutagogical and andragogical learning in PD. This case study examines the experiences of 43 preservice teachers as they took part in professional development book clubs as part of regular coursework in their educator preparation program. The participants’ communities of practice were established across varied platforms: face-to-face meetings, social media groups, and the university learning management system. Participants also collaborated with novel peers from heterogeneous cohorts. Survey data was collected and analyzed to better understand participants’ perceptions of the usefulness of the book club PD. Findings include preservice teachers’ evaluation of the both the value and format of book clubs as a professional development tool. Implications include suggestions for meaningful collaboration in virtual settings.

School Leadership During COVID-19

In one university-based school leadership preparation program, aspiring school principals were asked to intern virtually with principals during the COVID-19 school closures. During this internship experience, they interviewed principals about leading during a pandemic and wrote reflective responses explaining what they learned about leading during the pandemic. This case study examines the reflections and lessons learned of leading schools during COVID-19 from 27 aspiring principals in two cohorts of a university-based school leadership preparation program. The researchers employed an abductive qualitative analysis for each aspiring principals' reflection using both deductive and inductive coding methods. Findings revealed fourth themes: (1) the need for structure and organization, (2) attending humanistic needs, (3) struggling to respond to policy changes; and (4) finding meaning and uplifting morale. This study can be used to help inform and guide educational leadership preparation and development programs on how to redirect coursework and field-based experiences to better prepare aspiring school principals to lead during school closures.

Perspectives of Educational Technology Teacher Educators: Mavericks, Champions, or Change Agents?

Teacher education programs struggle to infuse educational technology (edtec) throughout the curriculum. Edtec faculty can play several roles within the programmatic design of teacher education programs. The purpose of this study was to explore edtec faculty perspectives of technology infusion efforts within their preparation programs. Q methodology research design and factor analysis were used to examine data from Q sorts completed exclusively by edtec faculty members (N = 16). A Q set of 44 statements was used to explore their perspectives on value of technology for teaching and learning, confidence levels, educator preparation program design, and leadership support. Results revealed participants’ strong beliefs in the value of technology for teaching and learning, and their confidence in modeling technology integration. Participants loaded on two factors demonstrating that some held a broader view of educator preparation at their institutions and were more critical of programmatic structures and leadership support for candidate development. A question remains about the role of edtec faculty as they negotiate various opportunities and expectations within teacher education.

“We don’t feel like we belong”: Graduate Students’ of Color Racialized Experiences in Hybrid HESA Graduate Programs

Using Critical Race Theory and sense of belonging, we examined the racialized experiences of 17 graduate Students of Color in hybrid higher education and student affairs (HESA) graduate preparation programs in the United States to understand how faculty members contribute to their sense of belonging. The experiences of graduate Students of Color in hybrid HESA programs are complex and multi-layered; therefore, this study used a critical phenomenological approach to examine how their racialized experiences influence their experiences in hybrid classrooms. Graduate Students' of Color racialized experiences were shaped by three factors, which are illustrated in the findings: faculty ability to discuss acts of racism, racialized experiences with faculty, and including diverse perspectives in the classroom. Participants’ experiences illuminate the importance of applying culturally conscious approaches to program development, curriculum, advising, and pedagogical practices, especially for graduate Students of Color. Implications and recommendations for hybrid HESA graduate programs coordinators and faculty are described in-depth, including recommendations for how higher education scholars can situate equity and inclusion into hybrid classroom conversations and everyday interactions with graduate Students of Color.

K-12 school leadership perspectives from the COVID-19 pandemic

The 2020 global pandemic ushered in an unparalleled call to dramatically shift the focus of how school administrators responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition needed to ensure the continuity of instruction in a distance learning environment demanded a new level of urgency. The long-term impact of COVID-19 presents new leadership challenges and continues to amplify the need for change during the global health crisis. This study aimed to understand the preparedness of school administrators in the United States of America as they responded to the worldwide pandemic and their perceived opportunities and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. This case study collected data from a survey and interviews to investigate how school leaders rose to the occasion while working through unprecedented challenges. The findings revealed several new opportunities: visionary leadership, resources to address disparities, increased community partnerships, and innovative instructional models. The challenges faced by school leaders encompassed the digital divide, staffing shortages, online instructional practices, communication with families, and staff professional development. This study offers specific implications for school leaders and educational leadership preparation programs.

Alignment of the synthesis of qualitative data (SQD) model, technology self-efficacy and TPACK Core measures in preparing pre-service teachers to integrate technology

Preparing pre-service teachers to integrate technology in their future classrooms is a complex endeavor. Several factors known to affect the use of technology in the classroom include technology knowledge and skills, positive attitudes toward integrating technology, pedagogical expertise with technology and content knowledge in one or more disciplines. One strategy that has been used in many educator preparation programs has been to create a course that teaches how to integrate technology. Measuring the impact of these types of courses is important in determining whether they are meeting the needs of the pre-service teachers in their pursuit to integrate technology in a meaningful and effective way. This paper reports on the measurement and alignment of three aspects that impact pre-service technology integration - technology self-efficacy, strategies and experiences provided by the preparation programs, and the intersection of technology, content knowledge and pedagogy. Pre-service participants in a semester-long course focused on integrating technology gained significantly from pre to post on each of the scales, demonstrating an increase in technology self-efficacy, experiences related to technology during their program and confidence in fusing technology, content knowledge and pedagogy. In addition, the three measures focused on different areas of technology integration aligned to show relationships of the attributes important for using technology in their future classrooms.

“Regardless, my students and I pressed on”: How Early-Career Teachers Develop Activist Identities

ABSTRACT This paper, coauthored by a graduate student, a professor of education, and four early-career teachers, extends recent scholarly efforts to understand how teachers develop activist identities and how teacher education might support this development. Four researcher-participants, practicing teachers, composed narratives that trace their journeys as secondary students through their undergraduate and graduate coursework and, finally, into the early years of their teaching careers, with specific attention to how they came to identify as educational activists. Drawing on practice theories of identities, we collaboratively analyzed these narratives, considering the intertwined internal processes, interpersonal dynamics, and contextual dimensions that shape early-career teachers’ understandings of themselves as activists and approaches to educational activism. We conclude with implications for educator preparation programs, highlighting the importance of supporting individual reflection, providing sustained opportunities to develop critical consciousness through supportive relationships, and explicitly teaching aspiring and current teachers to seek out and create contexts that will allow them to engage effectively in educational activism.

Creating equitable access: using OER for socially just educational leaders

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate ways in which educator preparation programs can influence educator and administrator support of Open Education Resources (OER). OER is still not used as widely as the researchers would like, even though it was introduced in the year 2002 (Bliss and Smith, 2017). While it is rarely used to a large extent, it is especially lacking in K-12 schools. By introducing OER to educator candidates (including future principals) in their own programs, they may be supportive of OER and invest in them when they work in schools.Design/methodology/approachThe research was conducted when an OER project was required in educator preparation programs. Two classes totaling 27 students engaged in a group project, creating OER materials and receptacles over the course of the semester.FindingsResearch showed that educator candidates were in favor of using OER thoroughly. Through building their own OER resources, educator candidates understood the importance of creating socially just and equitable learning environments, aligning with diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, a project like this has not been researched before. This research supports the idea that usage of OER and investment in it should happen for all educator candidates (teachers and administrators).