Student Teacher Mentor Supports for Urban Settings

• In Event: Roundtable Session 1
  In Roundtable Session: Expectations and Perceptions About Student Teaching and Student Teachers

Abstract

This study examines the perceptions of clinical teachers in two urban professional development schools and of student teachers in these settings related to University provided flexible mentoring supports during student teaching. Data from open-ended interviews and survey responses were coded using qualitative methods. Key themes that emerged: constraints related to high-need, urban settings; challenges of student teachers in working with CLD and academically diverse youth; perceptions of student teachers’ instructional and classroom management preparation; and perceptions of mentorship involvement; and clarity of clinical teacher, student teacher, and university mentor roles. Based on the findings, the authors identify components and protocols needed for meaningful university-urban school collaboration for student teacher mentoring.

Authors

• Wendy Morrison Cavendish, University of Miami

• Xuchilt Perez, University of Miami

• Margarette Mahotiere, University of Miami