Teacher Learning Research Articles

Investigating spoken classroom interactions in linguistically heterogeneous learning groups – An interdisciplinary approach to process video-based data in second language acquisition classrooms

Speaking the local language is central for successful integration into society. The teacher's language in second language (L2) classrooms serves as a crucial tool in language learning. Heterogeneity of learners’ language proficiency levels challenges teachers to adapt their language and accompanied instructional behavior. We offer an approach to study language acquisition processes and how teachers adapt their instructional language. This article presents our language-independent guidelines for processing video-based data of classroom interactions and demonstrate their reliability in a German as Second Language (GSL) classroom. These guidelines enable transcriptions of spoken language in noisy environments and detailed annotations of non-verbal classroom behavior. We outline research avenues at the intersection of empirical education research and linguistics that become feasible through these resources focusing on studying (non-)verbal adaptation strategies of teachers for learners at different proficiency levels. Our work directly fosters the interdisciplinary study of teacher-learner interactions, teacher competencies, and language acquisition.

“Making Sure the Books Check Every Box”: Preservice Teachers Learning to Select Texts for Reading Instruction

ABSTRACT A key consideration in providing effective reading instruction is the selection of a text. However, little is known about how preservice teachers are prepared to understand text complexity and how they leverage that knowledge in their text selection practices. Accordingly, this design/development study explored how preservice teachers (n = 81) gained declarative knowledge of text complexity, procedural knowledge of text selection practices, and conditional knowledge of activity, reader, and text considerations in their teacher education program. Findings indicate that following a two-course reading methods sequence in which they selected texts for small group instruction, typically performing preservice teachers gave the most attention to activity considerations (e.g. lesson-to-text match, instructional sequence) and the least attention to reader considerations (e.g. student interest). When noting text features teachers considered important, they described word-level features such as multisyllabic words, vocabulary, and decodability as most influencing text complexity. Furthermore, preservice teachers who held more declarative knowledge of text complexity tended to be more critical of text leveling systems whereas those with less knowledge of text complexity tended to view levels as an acceptable method of selecting texts. Together these findings suggest an emergent learning continuum on the topic of text selection for teacher education.

Emotion–Identity–Agency Triangle in Practicum Experience: A Pre-service Second Language Teacher's Development of Critical Emotional Reflexivity

Earlier research has established that language teachers’ identity work is intertwined with emotions and called for incorporating emotions in language teacher education. Yet, there is limited research investigating how teacher education programmes pedagogize identity, emotions and agency to help pre-service teachers gain critical emotional reflexivity. To respond to this gap in the literature, we pedagogized Kayi-Aydar’s emotion–identity–agency triangle via three teacher learning activities in a critical practicum course in a pre-service English language teaching programme in Turkey: reflective emotion diary; auto-ethnography; and critical issues analysis and advocacy project. In this study, we explore a Korean pre-service language teacher's (Iris's) case to demonstrate how she navigated her emotions, identity and agency throughout the practicum course with the help of these teacher learning activities and critical, dialogical supervision in our course. At the beginning of the term, Iris expressed anxiety due to her novice non-native pre-service teacher identity. Yet, as she gained critical emotional reflexivity, Iris could reflect on her emotions critically, transform her internalized deficit view of her identity as a novice non-native pre-service teacher and perform her multicultural and multilingual identity in her emerging pedagogy. We argue that findings from this study offer evidence that when intentionally and systematically supported by second language (L2) teacher educators through the design of teacher learning activities, pre-service L2 teachers can develop critical reflexivity of their emotions and emotion labour and recruit this awareness for teacher agency even over a short period of time and in contexts of power imbalance such as pre-service practicum experience. We offer recommendations for L2 teacher educators.

Teacher Learning Management

This study aimed to provide an overview of the implementation of teacher learning management in improving student academic achievement at Madrasah Tsanawiyah Darussalam Buriko. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation using a qualitative descriptive method. The findings indicate that effective learning management at Madrasah Tsanawiyah Darussalam Buriko involves three key stages: (1) Learning Planning: Lesson plans and other administrative tools are prepared, although often only to meet administrative requirements. (2) Implementation: Teachers generally follow their lesson plans, except in certain subjects where they rely solely on student textbooks. (3) Evaluation: This involves formative and summative assessments and evaluations of students' spiritual and social attitudes. Improved student learning outcomes are evidenced by fewer remedial cases attributed to teachers' innovative methods. However, challenges include insufficient infrastructure, additional teacher assignments, inadequate knowledge of planning and implementation, limited study duration, and student-related issues such as afternoon drowsiness, lack of enthusiasm, and discipline problems.This study aimed to provide an overview of the implementation of teacher learning management in improving student academic achievement at Madrasah Tsanawiyah Darussalam Buriko. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation using a qualitative descriptive method. The findings indicate that effective learning management at Madrasah Tsanawiyah Darussalam Buriko involves three key stages: (1) Learning Planning: Lesson plans and other administrative tools are prepared, although often only to meet administrative requirements. (2) Implementation: Teachers generally follow their lesson plans, except in certain subjects where they rely solely on student textbooks. (3) Evaluation: This involves formative and summative assessments and evaluations of students' spiritual and social attitudes. Improved student learning outcomes are evidenced by fewer remedial cases attributed to teachers' innovative methods. However, challenges include insufficient infrastructure, additional teacher assignments, inadequate knowledge of planning and implementation, limited study duration, and student-related issues such as afternoon drowsiness, lack of enthusiasm, and discipline problems.

Computer science for English learners: supporting teacher learning and improved practice to engage multilinguals in AP computer science principles

Multilingual learners, also known as English learners (ELs), are underrepresented in K-12 computer science (CS) courses, where they often struggle. This paper demonstrates how a Computer Science for English Learners (CSforEL) professional development (PD) program supported Advanced Placement CS Principles (APCSP) teachers in attending to both content and language demands while teaching ELs. We highlight qualitative findings showcasing how CSforEL PD yielded (micro)shifts in teacher practice and EL Student-Content interactions. Specifically, we discuss how unique instructional scaffolds offered within the PD shifted teachers’ awareness regarding EL students’ needs, and helped them support their EL students more effectively.

Longitudinal analysis of teacher self-efficacy evolution during a STEAM professional development program: a qualitative case study

Despite the widespread advocacy for the integration of arts and humanities (A&H) into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education on an international scale, teachers face numerous obstacles in practically integrating A&H into STEM teaching (IAT). To tackle the challenges, a comprehensive five-stage framework for teacher professional development programs focussed on IAT has been developed. Through the use of a qualitative case study approach, this study outlines the shifts in a participant teacher’s self-efficacy following their exposure to each stage of the framework. The data obtained from interviews and reflective analyses were analyzed using a seven-stage inductive method. The findings have substantiated the significant impact of a teacher professional development program based on the framework on teacher self-efficacy, evident in both individual performance and student outcomes observed over eighteen months. The evolution of teacher self-efficacy in IAT should be regarded as an open and multi-level system, characterized by interactions with teacher knowledge, skills and other entrenched beliefs. Building on our research findings, an enhanced model of teacher professional learning is proposed. The revised model illustrates that professional learning for STEAM teachers should be conceived as a continuous and sustainable process, characterized by the dynamic interaction among teaching performance, teacher knowledge, and teacher beliefs. The updated model further confirms the inseparable link between teacher learning and student learning within STEAM education. This study contributes to the existing body of literature on teacher self-efficacy, teacher professional learning models and the design of IAT teacher professional development programs.

Perceptions versus performance: Assessing teacher learning in asynchronous online professional development

AbstractTeacher learning in asynchronous online professional development (PD) is often measured by self-reported instruments, despite uncertainties regarding teachers’ accuracy in their self-assessment of learning. This study explored whether teachers’ self-reported gains in content knowledge for teaching aligned with those measured by direct assessments. Through quantitative analyses of data collected from 57 middle school mathematics teachers who participated in a fully asynchronous online PD program, we found no significant correlation between teachers’ self-reported knowledge gains and those measured by direct assessments. Additionally, we examined the role of teachers’ use of self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies, namely organization, elaboration, and monitoring, in their learning from the PD program by conducting linear regression analyses. Our results indicated that teachers who frequently monitored their understanding of the PD content demonstrated greater gains in their content knowledge as measured by direct assessments. However, none of the SRL strategies predicted the accuracy of teachers’ self-assessments of knowledge gains from the asynchronous online PD program. These findings raise concerns about relying solely on self-reported instruments to capture teachers’ learning in asynchronous online PD programs, and they emphasize the need for more robust and accurate outcome measures in the asynchronous online learning context.

Development and Validation of the Pre-Service Teacher Online Teaching Motivation Scale (PST-OTMS)

The purpose of the current study was to develop and validate the Pre-Service Teacher Online Teaching Motivation Scale (PST-OTMS), a survey instrument designed to reliably measure motivational constructs related to online teaching and learning in pre-service teachers. Due to increasing opportunities to teach within online learning contexts where challenges were magnified during the COVID-19 pandemic, a reliable and valid instrument is needed to measure such motivational constructs. The Pre-Service Teacher Online Teaching Motivation Survey (PST-OTMS) underwent a thorough validation process resulting in a 31-item survey aimed at assessing pre-service teacher motivation for online teaching across four dimensions: (1) pre-service teacher self-efficacy for online teaching, (2) pre-service teacher perceptions of online teaching and learning, (3) online teaching professionalism, and (4) pre-service teacher anticipated administrative support for online teaching. The PST-OTMS demonstrated strong reliability and validity within the research context. Future research aims to widely administer the PST-OTMS to explore reliability and validity within additional settings and with a more diverse demographic.

Pre-service Teachers' Dual Perspectives on Generative AI: Benefits, Challenges, and Integrating into Teaching and Learning

This study examined pre-service teachers' perspectives on integrating generative AI (GenAI) tools into their own learning and teaching practices. Discussion posts from asynchronous online courses on ChatGPT were analyzed using the Diffusion of Innovations framework to explore familiarity, willingness to apply ChatGPT to instruction, potential benefits, challenges, and concerns about using GenAI in teaching and learning. The course discussions significantly increased pre-service teachers' awareness and foundational knowledge while reducing anxiety towards AI technologies. However, despite exposure to ChatGPT, only a few confirmed intentions to adopt AI tools in their teaching practices, potentially reflecting lingering uncertainties evidenced by emotional responses, such as worry and concern. Professional development in AI literacy can address these uncertainties and enhance GenAI familiarity. The study offers insights into responsible GenAI adoption in education and how higher education can leverage ChatGPT to enhance pre-service teacher learning.

The Factors Affecting the Impacts of Using the School Improvement Plan (SIP) on Students' Academic Achievement in Malaysia

While professional learning communities are hailed as the solution to raising teacher quality in Malaysia, other nations, such as the UK and Canada, have started to deprivatize teaching. This theory is predicated on the notion that teaching is a collaborative endeavor in which educators grow as individuals and professionals. Rather, it is a cooperative process in which teacher learning enhances student learning. Furthermore, the traditional classroom is rapidly changing to accommodate the needs of students in the twenty-first century while also encouraging the deprivatizing teaching approach. Consequently, this study presents a curriculum-change implementation strategy one school uses to meet Malaysia's evolving understanding of learning in and for the twenty-first century. Narrating a series of anticipated strategic events clarifies the importance of using distributive leadership as an essential tool for supporting educational enhancement and highlights the benefits of consultative techniques. This study aims to determine the variables that influence how the School Improvement Plan (SIP) affects Malaysian students' academic performance. Using a Google Form approach, this study used a quantitative research design, an effective and systematic way to collect quantifiable data. According to this survey, teacher leadership factors have the most significant impact on students' academic success compared to the other two factors. The results of this study suggested a theoretical framework that forecasts the related factors—principal instructional leadership, teacher leadership, and conducive school environment—that influence the effects of implementing the School Improvement Plan (SIP) on students' academic achievement in Malaysia.

‘Not elsewhere specified’: a case study of preservice teachers’ perceptions and practices of outdoor learning

ABSTRACT This case study premised that outdoor learning situates within a unique ontological category of where learning happens, distinct from curricular (what) and pedagogical (who/how) concerns of learning. By shifting preservice teacher learning experiences during mandatory teacher education methods courses outdoors, we conjured a boundary object for where learning occurs. We collected and analysed preservice teacher reflections generated from the outdoor learning experiences. Three overarching outdoor learning dimensions (OLD) were distilled from 90 reflection-outputs: outdoors as 1) experience, 2) concept, and 3) place. Discussion considered purposes of outdoor where in teacher preparation for 21st century learning in relation to the aim of inhabitancy, through the lens of useful learning. Useful learning was scoped as learning concerned with health and wellbeing, pro-environmental actions and beliefs, and experiential/inquiry-based learning.

The Effect of Teachers' Level of Self-Regulated Learning and Internet Self-Efficacy on Teaching Innovation in the Constructivist Curriculum

In the era of modern education, innovation in teaching is a crucial aspect for improving learning quality. This study aims to find out the extent to which Internet Self-Efficacy (ISE) of teachers affects learning innovation in the constructivist curriculum and the extent to which Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) affects teachers in making learning innovations in the constructivist curriculum. The research method used is quantitative with a survey approach. Data was collected through a questionnaire filled out by 97 junior high school teachers in Central Java who implemented a constructivist curriculum. Based on the results of the regression analysis, it was found that in the condition that teachers have a high level of Internet self-efficacy, self-regulated learning (SRL) has a significant effect on the learning innovations that are carried out by teachers. Another condition is the influence of SRL with low teacher ISE on teacher learning innovation. In the condition of low self-efficacy levels, SRL indicators of metacognitive skills, time management, and environmental settings did not have a significant effect on teachers' learning innovation. These findings indicate that teachers with high levels of self-regulated learning (SRL) and internet self-efficacy tend to be more innovative in implementing teaching methods that are in accordance with the principles of constructivism. The implications of this study emphasize the importance of developing teachers' self-regulated learning (SRL) and internet self-efficacy skills through continuous training and professional development programs to improve the quality of teaching in constructivist curricula.

Exploring Interactive Read Aloud Literacy Learning and Quality Books in the Merdeka Curriculum

The Indonesian government issued a policy on teacher literacy teaching competency standards, which includes teachers' ability to help students access, use, interpret and communicate information and ideas through various texts according to students' characteristics and needs (Ministry of Education, 2022a). This study aims to promote reading aloud and interactive book selection in literacy learning for public primary school teachers in Depok, West Java, Indonesia. This qualitative case study explored teachers' understandings and practices in selecting books and integrating reading aloud activities with learning outcomes in Merdeka Curriculum. Six teachers participated in the study, which involved data collection through surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), interviews, observations and oral reflections. Using manual thematic data analysis, this study focused on teachers' practices of selecting leveled books and integrating discussions in reading aloud with Learning Outcomes. The results showed that teachers began to express their understanding of book selection. Major themes that emerged included the importance of selecting quality books and the challenges of selecting quality books. In the context of literacy learning, several themes also emerged that became teachers' reflections in conducting interactive read aloud activities in accordance with the learning outcomes, namely; benefits, awareness for better classroom preparation, interactive discussion spaces and continuous training.

Informal Learning For Pre-service English Teachers in a Chinese Context: A Case Study

Informal Learning For Pre-service English Teachers in a Chinese Context: A Case Study

Use of Google Sites as A Web-Based Learning Media in Physics Learning for High School Teachers in Langsa City

Differentiated learning is a key component of the Merdeka Curriculum, which emphasizes the need for media that supports students in learning according to their individual characteristics and pace. As a result, teachers must develop suitable learning media. Platforms like Google Sites offer a free and accessible way for teachers to create materials and assessments that students can access anytime. Therefore, teacher training in using Google Sites to create web-based learning media is essential to support differentiated learning in the Merdeka Curriculum. The training was held at Muhammadiyah High School in Langsa City and was attended by 25 Physics teachers who were members of the Langsa City Physics Teachers Organization (MGMP). The effectiveness of the training was measured using a participant response questionnaire with a total of 14 statements, which included indicators of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and perceptions. The results of the training showed that teachers were satisfied, and there was an increase in teachers' knowledge, skills, and attitudes in using Google Sites as a web-based physics learning media. Teachers expressed optimism about using Google Sites as a tool that can facilitate student learning according to individual preferences.

Looking back to move forward: re-examining “alternative” certification as a site for teacher learning

ABSTRACT Alternative teacher certification programs (ATCPs) are popular policy responses to the growing US teacher shortage problem, yet debates around these programs often fail to recognise the unique experiences of beginning teachers in this licensure pathway. In this essay, I draw on Dewey’s (1904) essay ‘The Relation of Theory to Practice in Education’ to clarify the meaning and implications of so-called ‘alternative’ programs. I argue that by analysing the time, placement, and methods of practice work reveals how ATCP teachers are both under-supported and closely surveilled. I conclude with a call for ATCP designs to intentionally prepare teachers for this reality.

Is Inclusive Education a Good “Fit” for ALL? Perceptions of Parents and Educators of ECD Learners with Complex Communication Needs

Providing children with complex communication needs (CCNs) with the right accommodations in a supportive schooling environment from the early childhood development (ECD) stage can significantly improve their developmental and educational outcomes. Inclusive education has been proposed as a possible framework that can promote positive educational outcomes; however, in South Africa, there has not been enough attention paid to inclusive education in ECD especially focusing on children with CCNs. The study therefore explored the perceptions of parents of children with CCNs and early childhood development teachers on inclusive education. Semi-structured interviews and a focus group were conducted with 8 ECD teachers and 8 parents of children with CCNs, who were purposively selected. Data were imported into NVivo 1.5 software and analysed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. Findings from the study revealed the following themes: i. Perceived benefits of inclusive education; ii. Preference for special needs education; iii. Shortcomings of special needs education in addressing the needs of learners with CCNs; iv. Factors informing school placement; v. Communication as a barrier to learning, teaching and socializing; vi. The need for disability conscientization. Although both parents and teachers of learners with CCNs acknowledge the value of inclusive education in facilitating access to education, they have a mistrust of inclusive education because of fear of stigma, discrimination, exclusion, bullying and exclusionary teaching practices. While they preferred special education, they acknowledged the gaps in teacher’s knowledge on communication disorders, training of teachers, teaching aids and assistive devices. Educating a child with a disability is expensive because of other additional costs, especially transportation.

Relevance and Experience Constructing Identities as Future Teachers of English Language Learners: Multiple Case Studies of Three Mainstream Teacher Candidates

Given the continuous increase of students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in K-12 classrooms in the United States (US), there is no doubt that meeting English language learners’ (ELLs’) linguistic and academic needs is a pressing matter. However, teachers report feeling unprepared or believing that ELLs are the responsibility of other specialists. This study responds to the call for preparing mainstream teachers for today’s diverse classrooms by exploring teacher candidates’ teacher professional identity (TPI) construction. Using multiple case study designs of three mainstream teacher candidates, the findings of this study highlight (a) multiple I-positions engaging in dialogues, (b) relevant teacher education experiences (re)shaping TPIs, and (c) relevant diversity-related issues in macrosociety entering minisociety. Findings indicate the importance of critical reflection in teacher education programs and facilitating opportune and considerate practicum placements. Further implications and recommendations for teacher education research and practice are discussed.

The Role Of The Head Of The School Innovator In Improving The Learning Quality Of Teachers (Case Study At Madrasah Aliyah Manbaul Ulum Tlogorejo, Karangawen, Demak)

This article discusses the role of madrasah principals as innovators in improving the quality of teacher learning. This role includes developing teachers' professionalism, applying educational technology, and developing a relevant and up-to-date curriculum. Through the descriptive qualitative method, this study identifies various strategies used by madrasah principals in motivating and supporting teachers to improve their teaching quality. The results show that innovative madrasah principals are able to create a dynamic and collaborative learning environment, which in turn contributes to improved student achievement.

Anatomically correct models for visually impaired learners: Teachers’ perspectives

Background: Despite anatomically correct models (ACMs) being recommended internationally for their ability to serve as real-life, age-appropriate, and practical models in comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) for learners with visual impairment, there is still limited research exploring South African teachers’ views regarding their use. Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore how South African teachers of learners with visual impairment view the use of ACMs during their CSE lessons. Method: This study used a qualitative approach and an exploratory, multiple case study research design. A total of 36 teachers from five schools for the blind were convenience sampled and data were generated via focus group discussions. The theory of planned behaviour underpinned this study, while data were analysed thematically. Results: Most teachers reacted with fear and resistance towards the use of ACMs in their teaching. Their responses were based on embarrassment, shame, and discomfort in handling the models. Part of the reason for this was that most teachers had not received prior teacher education about the use of the models. Some teachers falsely believed that ACMs were pleasure-enhancing devices. Others recommended their use only for blind learners, while yet others stated that they would use ACMs because of their practical value. Conclusion: Findings suggest that future research is needed on how best to engage the teachers of learners with visual impairment in self-awareness and desensitisation teacher training. Recommendations for a critical teaching framework, revisions to the CSE curriculum, as well as guidelines for teacher education are provided to facilitate teachers’ use of learners with visual impairment ACMs in their CSE lessons.