Preparing teachers for the classrooms of the future through research and design.
Journal of Digital Learning in Teacher Education
October 18, 2019
Teacher Moments: A Digital Simulation for Preservice Teachers to Approximate Parent–Teacher Conversations
Meredith Thompson, Kesenia Owho-Ovuakporie, Kevin Robinson, Yoon Jeon Kim, Rachel Slama, Justin Reich
Abstract
Interactive simulations allow preservice teachers to connect education theory and pedagogy in scaffolded environments. We created digital simulations with scenarios from in-person simulations and used them to prepare novice teachers for conversations with parents. Using a design-based approach we implemented the simulations in an education class, gathered data through surveys and observations, and incorporated feedback into subsequent designs. Novice teachers perceived the simulation as authentic and practiced maintaining composure and articulating pedagogical approaches. Recordings of novice teachers’ responses produced by the simulation enabled self-reflection and peer and instructor feedback. Results suggest that these digital simulations hold promise as low-cost, flexible tools for novice teachers to engage in targeted practice in a low-stakes setting
Citations
Meredith Thompson, Kesiena Owho-Ovuakporie, Kevin Robinson, Yoon Jeon Kim, Rachel Slama & Justin Reich (2019) Teacher Moments: A Digital Simulation for Preservice Teachers to Approximate Parent–Teacher Conversations, Journal of Digital Learning in Teacher Education, 35:3, 144-164, DOI: 10.1080/21532974.2019.1587727
Links to Research
Simulating more Equitable Discussions: Using Teacher Moments And Practice Based Teacher Education In Mathematical Professional Learning
Let’s hit the refresh button (a couple of times): Reimagining math curriculum and teacher learning to broaden participation in the math of the future
The power to change the equation: Mathematics teacher learning reimagined