"Teachers Really Have a Bias in Their Head": Two Teacher Candidates' Conceptions of Racial Profiling

• In Event: 70.046 - Teacher Identity: Examining Perceptions of Race and Cultural Identity

Abstract

This qualitative study focused on how two teacher candidates conceptualized and understood racial profiling. By interviewing teacher candidates about their own experiences and observations of profiling, we hoped to prompt reflection and perspective-taking, especially in White teacher candidates who exhibit beliefs that include 'colorblindness' (Bonilla-Silva & Dietrich, 2011; Milner, 2003; Tatum, 1997) or ‘naive egalitarianism’ (Woolkfolk-Hoy, Davis, & Pape, 2005). Findings indicated that one participant conceptualized racial profiling as intrinsic to her understanding of the schooling experiences of students of color. Conversely, while the second participant regarded profiling as relevant to school contexts, she implied that she found some truth in profiles and stereotypes of people of color. Implications for teacher education are discussed.
 

Authors

• Hannah Carson Baggett, Auburn University

• Crystal G Simmons, SUNY Geneseo