From Student to Beginning Teacher: Learning Strengths and Teaching Challenges

• In Event: Poster Session 15
  In Poster Session: The Lives of Teachers: Poster Session

Abstract

This research examined how the professional practice of six beginning elementary teachers was influenced by their own early learning experiences. The participants’ childhood learning and current teaching were explored to determine the ways in which their learning experiences as pupils influenced their understanding of themselves as teachers, and their classroom practice. The participants all reported that the school subjects that were the easiest to learn as pupils presented the biggest challenge as teachers, and vice versa. Through focusing the majority of their professional development and planning time on subjects that were challenging for them to learn, and through reflecting on their own experiences of struggle, the participants reported a greater sense of confidence and accomplishment when teaching these subjects.

Author

• Monica Eileen McGlynn-Stewart, George Brown College