Features of Beneficial Service-Learning Experiences in Teacher Preparation

• In Event: 16.057 - Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: 16.057-3 - The Role of Service-Learning in Teacher Preparation

Abstract

The mixed methods research features a service-learning project that has continued for six years through a course of a teacher preparation program in physical education. Preservice teachers work with low-income, minority youth in neighborhoods characterized by gang recruitment. Quantitative findings document substantial gains in efficacy beliefs of preservice teachers when they participated in service-learning. Qualitative analysis of the preservice teachers’ reflections yielded understanding of the gains in efficacy and features of beneficial service-learning experiences. Findings also are consistent with other research and tenets of theory.

Authors

• Kathleen Tice, The University of Texas - Arlington

• Larry Paul Nelson, The University of Texas - Arlington