Middle School Principals’ Perceptions of Effective Middle-Level Teaching Practices and Preparation

• In Event: Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: Engaging and Supporting Student Learning in Middle School

Abstract

Drawing on a framework of effective teaching at the middle level, this exploratory study utilized survey methodology to document middle level principals’ perceptions of effective teaching practices and the preparedness of newly hired middle level teachers. The findings suggest that principals’ descriptions of effective teaching align with national standards for middle level teaching in the area of curriculum and instruction but do not align with those same standards in the areas of developmental responsiveness and relationships. Additionally, principals perceptions of the level of preparation of newly hired candidates indicates they are prepared in their content knowledge but lack preparation in culturally and developmentally appropriate practice.

Authors

• Penny B. Howell, University of Louisville

• Shawn A. Faulkner, Northern Kentucky University

• Chris Cook, Northern Kentucky University