Experiences of Four Preservice and In-Service Teachers From Diverse Spiritual Backgrounds in Educational Contexts

• In Event: Roundtable Session 55
  In Roundtable Session: Invigorating and Reexperiencing Teacher Identity and Teacher Education in International/Transnational Contexts

Abstract

The purpose of our research is to offer insight into four preservice and in-service teachers,’ from diverse religious backgrounds (Muslim, Judaism, Sikhism, and Mormonism), experiences and understandings as they study and work in colleges of education and elementary classrooms that are rooted in Anglo Christian traditions. We relied on aspects of critical multiculturalism and social identity theory to guide our study. In our case study, we conducted interviews with four participants: two preservice teachers and two in-service teachers and kept a reflexive journal. We will provide implications of our findings and how this supports and provides understandings for colleges of education and teacher educators in order to develop culturally responsive teachers through course work and course content.

Authors

• Susan V. Bennett, The University of Mississippi

• AnnMarie Alberton Gunn, University of South Florida - St. Petersburg

• Mary Lou I. Morton, Walden University - University of South Florida