Educator Preparation Programs Research Articles

Recognition of Effective Co-Teaching Practices by Interdisciplinary Pre-Service Candidates

This study investigates the degree to which pre-service interdisciplinary groups of undergraduate education candidates recognize co-teaching skills and behaviors in practice. With the increasing emphasis on collaborative teaching models in contemporary educational settings, understanding how future educators perceive and identify effective co-teaching practices is crucial for enhancing educational preparation programs (EPPs). Using a mixed-methods approach, this study analyzed consensus ratings from an interdisciplinary assignment that asked candidates to work collaboratively while identifying best practices in co-teaching across example and non-example videos. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected using student ratings and videos of group discussion for consensus scoring. Quantitative data were collected using consensus ratings for each indicator on the observation checklist. Qualitative data derived from video transcripts of the consensus rating sessions illuminated the process each group used and reasons each group provided for consensus ratings. The findings reveal varying degrees of recognition and understanding of co-teaching skills, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement in the candidates’ ability to identify and apply these practices. This study provides valuable insights into the preparedness of pre-service educators for collaborative teaching environments and offers recommendations for integrating co-teaching competencies more effectively into EPPs.

Findings from Two Pilot Studies: The Perspectives of Teachers and Chinese Immigrant Parents on Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This manuscript combines two pilot studies to understand teachers’ and immigrant parents’ perspectives on K-12 students’ schooling experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews were collected as the data sources in both studies. The socio-ecological theory is utilized to analyze the data. Participants included two teachers and two Chinese immigrant parents. The findings show that (1) both parents and teachers described concerns and challenges linked to social isolation at the microsystem level, (2) the participants felt connected or disconnected when reflecting on teacher-parent communication at the mesosystem level, and (3) the participants shared their expectations on the resources that could be offered by school districts and teacher education preparation programs at the exosystem level. The findings informed recommendations for supporting teachers, immigrant students, and parents in the post-pandemic world.

Early-career primary school teachers as ‘watched watchers’: an analysis informed by feminist surveillance studies

ABSTRACT Using concepts from feminist surveillance studies, this study followed three early-career teachers as they transitioned from an educator preparation program to professional employment as primary classroom teachers. In particular, this analysis highlights how surveillance constrained and contributed to participants’ experiences and available subjectivities. Outcomes suggest experiences of surveillance significantly influenced the early-career teachers’ negotiations of personal and professional selves, contributing to workplace compliance and uniformity, as well as impacting their well-being. Understanding participants’ experiences as young women and new teachers amid school spaces saturated with various forms of surveillance can contribute to a better-informed perspective for supporting early-career teachers.

Equipping Preservice Teachers for Data Use: A Study of Secondary Educator Preparation Programs in Virginia

Because data-informed decision-making (DIDM) can help teachers meet diverse learners’ needs (van Geel et al., 2016), educator preparation programs (EPPs) must ensure that preservice teachers (PSTs) develop the data literacy skills needed for effective data use. However, little is known about the ways in which EPPs work towards building PSTs’ data literacy, despite licensure and accreditation requirements compelling EPPs to do so. In this study, we analyzed survey, document, and interview data from Virginia EPPs to determine what present practices for DIDM preparation are taking place across the state. Results point to a lack of uniformity among EPPs for how preparation is undertaken, and that PSTS seem to have limited coursework on data use. Additionally, there appears to be minimal collaboration between EPPs and clinical partners, such that PSTs infrequently have opportunities to engage in DIDM during field experiences.

Adapting to the 21st Century Learning: Teaching Strategies of Filipino Sped Teachers in the United States

This study employs a narrative research methodology to explore the instructional modifications and teaching practices utilized by Filipino Special Education (SPED) teachers in the United States to meet the demands of 21st-century learning. Through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with ten purposely selected SPED educators, key themes emerged, including technology integration, differentiated instruction, cultural sensitivity, individualized education plans (IEPs), family and community involvement, and the creation of sensory-friendly environments. Participants highlighted the importance of leveraging technology for personalized learning, implementing varied instructional strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles, and incorporating culturally relevant materials to foster inclusivity. Regular IEP reviews and active family engagement were identified as critical for enhancing student motivation and success. Additionally, creating sensory-friendly classroom environments was emphasized as essential for supporting students' sensory processing needs. The findings indicate that these multifaceted strategies not only promote academic achievement but also enhance social-emotional development and inclusivity among students with special needs. Recommendations include ongoing professional development for educators, increased parental involvement in the IEP process, and systematic reviews of instructional strategies. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how Filipino SPED teachers adapt their practices in diverse contexts, ultimately informing educational policies and teacher preparation programs aimed at fostering equitable learning environments.

From Background to Foreground: A Retrospective Self-Study of Critical Social Studies Teacher Educating

ABSTRACT In this retrospective collaborative self-study, we examined our development as justice-based social studies teacher educators. Rooted in frameworks centered on critical social studies and teacher educator knowledge and practice, an analysis of discussions and curricular-instructional materials spanning 12 years found that justice was treated as optional in early iterations of our methods courses. Yet over time, we have taken steps to move justice from the background to the foreground of our work. We discuss and offer explanations for this growth, concluding with implications for our own practice as well as those charged with structuring (and teaching within) teacher educator preparation and induction programs.

A Systematic Review of Online Teaching Methods in Higher Education

Since the pandemic began, online teaching methods have received increased interest and review. Educators rapidly developed delivery techniques to meet the needs of students forced to become remote learners. Some of these methods were successful; others did not meet program objectives, especially in educator preparation programs (EPPs). The speed of changing to an online environment limited the ability of educators to research and adapt known evidenced-based practices. This systematic literature review provides research and insight into student-focused outcomes related to effective online teaching practices. Over 600 articles, across multiple disciplines were reviewed based on research and results using different techniques, pedagogy, and design in the online environment. The five main strategies, methods, or philosophies that most affected student outcomes in the online community were engagement, collaboration, beliefs, knowledge, and enactment of knowledge/practice. Each topic is discussed in depth and recommendations are made for effective online teaching and also specific applications to EPPs.

Walking the Talk: Engendering a “Community of Teachers” in an Educator Preparation Program in the Southern United States

Walking the Talk: Engendering a “Community of Teachers” in an Educator Preparation Program in the Southern United States

Characteristics of practica in early childhood education: variation in criteria for placements and mentor educators

ABSTRACT Practicum experiences, a critical feature in educator preparation programs, provide preservice educators opportunities to incorporate theory and practice in classrooms while under the supervision of a mentor educator. Although general descriptions of high-quality practicum experiences are provided by professional organizations and accrediting bodies, state licensing and differences across educator preparation programs contribute to variation in these experiences, which in turn have implications for the early childhood workforce. To provide a data-based understanding of program-level requirements for practicum experiences, the current study collected survey data from 227 early childhood higher education programs across 48 states in the U.S. The survey included questions about practicum placement settings, requirements and additional criteria for practicum placement sites, mentor educator requirements, age of children in the classroom, and intensity of practicum experiences. Results show that higher education programs allow several different types of placements with most programs using public school placements. Types of program and ages of children in the classroom were most frequently reported as required criteria and partnerships and feedback were most frequently reported as additional considerations in the determination of placement sites. Mentor educator education and license criteria varied by the age of the children for the practica. Higher education programs varied in the number and hours of practicum offered with more practicum hours in early elementary, kindergarten, and pre-k classrooms than in infant and toddler classrooms. The variations in characteristics and criteria for practicum placements across educator preparation programs are discussed, including implications for early childhood educator preparation programs and future research.

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.

Preservice teachers’ pedagogical competence and transformation learning in a dual online-offline teaching practicum

The amount of research discussing preservice teachers’ (PSTs) critical reflection on teaching practicum in transformative learning (TL) within teacher education programs is evident. However, research investigating PSTs’ pedagogical competence (PC) and TL through the lens of critical reflection on Indonesian EFL teaching practicum settings is limited. The study aimed to investigate what PSTs learned from critical reflection on a dual online-offline teaching practicum for developing PC and how they performed TL. Ten PSTs engaged in a two-month teaching practicum experience within the English teacher education preparation program of a state university in Central Kalimantan Indonesia were purposely sampled in this case study. Multiple data were garnered through reflective journals and focus group interviews. Data were analyzed deductively and thematically to explore prominent themes. The results shed some light on lessons learned encompassing the instructional practices for PSTs’ PC development and their improved PC. PSTs performed TL by boosting students’ ability in changing mindsets and thinking habits in learning and making them aware of learning and becoming better learners. The research implication provides empirical evidence pertaining to how critical reflection on the dual online-offline teaching practicum contributes to PSTs’ PC development and TL performance for professional development.

A Comparison of Role-play v. Mixed-Reality Simulation on Pre-Service Teachers’ Behavior Management Practices

Students with disabilities are being educated in the general education setting at an ever-increasing rate; therefore, it becomes imperative that educator preparation programs ensure that pre-service teachers are equipped to meet the needs of all students. Teacher education scholars have encouraged educator preparation programs to maximize the potential of technology to improve the use of evidence-based and high-leverage practices. This study sought to examine the effects of role-play versus mixed-reality simulation on the development of pre-service teachers’ ability to implement high-probability practices while setting group expectations for behavior. Using a switching replications design, results suggested mixed-reality simulation was more effective than role-play on the development of pre-service teachers’ ability to implement high-probability practices (i.e., opportunities to respond, feedback) while setting group expectations for behavior. Additionally, student perception regarding the feasibility and acceptability of mixed-reality simulation to learn classroom management strategies was greater than that of role-play. Implications of results and future research are discussed.

Collaborative Partnerships During Fieldwork Experiences to Promote Evidence-Based Practices

AbstractIn early childhood education, implementing evidence-based practices (EBPs) is crucial for enhancing children's developmental outcomes. While educator preparation program coursework often covers the content knowledge of EBPs, the application of this knowledge in fieldwork settings is limited. This results in infrequent implementation of EBPs in early childhood settings, highlighting the need for better strategies. One effective way to promote educators' implementation of EBPs is integrating the behavioral skills training (BST) model during fieldwork experiences. Incorporating BST into early childhood educator preparation programs can foster strong collaborative partnerships among team members, facilitating the identification and intentional use of EBPs to support individual children's learning and development. We describe this new collaborative partnership model in fieldwork experiences to demonstrate how preservice educators, in-service educators, and teacher educators play pivotal roles in influencing each other's performance. This collaborative effort aims to promote the implementation of EBPs that lead to the children's improved developmental outcomes.

Development and evolution of clinical partnerships: K-12 school leaders' perspectives

PurposeThe purpose of this research study was to examine school leaders’ critical perspectives about the nature of their partnerships with K-12 schools and two Educator Preparation Programs (EPP).Design/methodology/approachData were collected through interviews with K-12 school leaders to obtain partners’ critical perspectives about school–EPP partnerships. The interviews were coded thematically and oriented around the central concept of working to represent the interplay of the participants and their collaborators’ perceptions of the nature and dimensions of school–EPP partnerships.FindingsThe analysis resulted in the construction of a mosaic of school leaders’ collective lived experiences using a statewide conceptual framework as a guide. Four themes emerged from our interviews with school partners: (a) the need for dynamic, responsive and synergistic partnerships; (b) the need to monitor and maintain the underlying structure and integrity of the partnership; (c) the culture of interns as colleagues or as visitors; and (d) the need to innovate.Originality/valueFour themes emerged from our interviews with school partners: (1) the need for dynamic, responsive and synergistic partnerships; (2) the need to monitor and maintain the underlying structure and integrity of partnerships; (3) the culture of interns as colleagues or interns as visitors; and (4) the need to innovate.

Using Trentham’s principle of inverse consistency to vet models of human development for use in Christian educator preparation programs

This article aims to utilize Trentham’s Inverse Consistency Protocol (ICP) to appraise human development models for use within Christian educator preparation programs. The authors propose that the ICP can be applied to any secular paradigms to discern potential areas of inconsistency with an institution’s faith tradition. To illustrate application of the ICP in this way, Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) model was provided as an example of one model of human development that is widely taught in educator preparation programs. The ZPD model was submitted through the four-step inverse consistency protocol. Findings suggest that ICP is a reflective tool for engaging with the social sciences with integrity after protocol results indicated that ZPD is an appropriate model for use by Christian educators when used responsibly. Implications for extended use of ICP are discussed.

Meaningful and Engaging Learning Experiences in Early Childhood Special Education Preparation Programs

The personnel preparation of early intervention/early childhood special educator (EI/ECSE) candidates is a pivotal stage in supporting the development of professionals who can effectively work with young children with and at-risk of developmental disabilities, their families, and other service providers. This process encompasses a multifaceted approach to equip candidates with knowledge, skills, and attitudes/dispositions to successfully work within the field. This compilation article includes multiple authors of each section who share strategies, assignments, tools, and experiences to center the Initial Practice-Based Standards for Early Interventionists/Early Childhood Special Educators (Division for Early Childhood [DEC] of the Council for Exceptional Children [CEC], 2020; hereafter referred to as the EI/ECSE Standards) and DEC’s Recommended Practices (RPs). These strategies are shared through a “spiraling curriculum” framework, and progress from an awareness level to reflection of candidates’ own practice. In addition, this article shares related resources to consider in planning for innovative coursework and practicum/student teaching opportunities. Specific examples of spiraling experiences to deepen learning through opportunities to introduce content aligned to RPs and EI/ECSE Standards are included.

Self-Care is Not Enough: Effects of Self-Care Self-Monitoring Intervention on Teacher Candidates’ Resilience and Self-Efficacy

ABSTRACT Educator preparation programs must prepare teachers to endure the demands of the profession. Teacher candidates can develop skills to mitigate stress and develop resilience and self-efficacy necessary for the current reality of the teaching profession. We implemented a randomized control trial to evaluate the effects of a self-care self-monitoring intervention on teacher candidates’ resilience and self-efficacy. Participants assigned to the treatment group created self-care goals and monitored their weekly progress toward their goals. We found no significant effects of the self-monitoring tool on teacher candidates’ resilience and self-efficacy. We contextualize our findings within the current teacher attrition and retention crisis and share implications for educator preparation programs.

Effectiveness of School Violence Prevention Programs in Elementary Schools in the United States: A Systematic Review

School violence remains a major concern for scholars, policymakers, and the public in the United States. Despite the implementation of various school violence prevention programs, information regarding their effectiveness in the United States is outdated and limited. This systematic review identified current elementary school programs that effectively reduce school violence in the United States and determined the types of elementary school violence prevention programs implemented, their effectiveness, and the types of tools used to enhance such programs. A qualitative methodological approach was employed, and four databases were searched. English articles published between 2012 and 2023 were selected. Furthermore, data involving elementary school education, school personnel, teachers, and children (5–12-year-old) in the United States were included in the thematic analysis. Results confirmed that the school-wide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports program effectively decreases violence, suspensions, office referrals, and disruptive behaviors, whereas positive action effectively reduces negative violent behaviors. Social–emotional learning (SEL) implementation also reduced behavioral issues. The findings of this study are relevant for guiding teachers, school administrators, policymakers, teacher education preparation programs, and health professionals in constructing evidence-based violence prevention programs with an added SEL component for elementary schools.

A content analysis of SBAE preservice teacher disposition assessments

Effective teaching is complex as it encapsulates professional, interpersonal, and intrapersonal knowledge. Professionalism is often tied to dispositions, although ambiguous definitions and cultural sensitivity make it a difficult task. Therefore, this study aimed to establish a comprehensive list of dispositions associated with SBAE teacher preparation. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of dispositions assessments in school-based agricultural education (SBAE) teacher preparation programs in the North-Central Region of the American Association for Agricultural Education by conducting a content analysis. The sample frame included 22 dispositions, and all of them appeared in the assessments at least once, resulting in 554 dispositions across the documents. This study contributes to our understanding of teacher dispositions, an important facet of teacher education preparation programs. However, we are left with additional questions relating to practice, research, and theory. According to prior research, students bring their dispositions into their learning experiences, but those learning experiences and other factors influence changes concerning the decision to teach as a career.

발달지체 및 장애 영아 조기개입 서비스 제공에 대한 현장 전문가의 인식

This mixed methods analysis employed online surveys and semi-structured interviews to explore the perspectives of 60 early intervention service providers in South Korea regarding service delivery. This study aimed to comprehensively understand their perceptions of the barriers and facilitators in early intervention services. The online survey- consisting of 30 items related to participant characteristics, service information, and perspectives on barriers and facilitators- was conducted. Participants were intentionally categorized based on survey data, and six individuals were randomly selected for follow-up interviews to ensure a wide spectrum of perspectives. The results of the mixed-methods study indicated diverse experiences and perspectives among early intervention providers, with responses varying across each item. While there was relative consistency among respondents regarding facilitators, perspectives on barriers differed both among participants and across various variables. The significance of preservice educator preparation programs and in-service educators’ professional development opportunities in enhancing early intervention services was commonly emphasized. The study concludes with recommendations and implications aimed at enhancing the early intervention system in South Korea.