Finding the "Sweet Spot": Building Intentional Clinical Experiences for Preservice Teachers

• In Event: Poster Session 11
  In Poster Session: Division K Section 6 Poster Session

Abstract

In this study, we explored how intentional clinical experience embedded into a site-based teacher education program transformed early preservice teachers' beliefs about teaching as a profession. Results from our study suggest that debriefing students on their clinical field experiences and tying learning theory to practice fostered a cautious confidence among preservice teachers. Participants recognized the political nature of schooling as both a reality and obstacle of the profession. Intentional clinical placements have the capacity to connect the learning of theory within the academic world to the practical experiences of teaching. Introducing these ideas early in a teacher education program has the potential to develop preservice teachers with an accelerated understanding of teaching, learning, and the contexts of schooling.

Authors

• Paul G. Fitchett, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Elena Tosky King, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Thomas Fisher, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Marsha J. Brigman, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Susan Harden, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Heather Marie Coffey, University of North Carolina - Charlotte